essay about tourism in salalah

15 Best Places to Visit & Things to Do in Salalah Oman

Nestled within the Arabian Peninsula, Salalah boasts a distinctiveness that sets it apart and has made it a year-round tourism hotspot. With a multitude of captivating activities and an array of remarkable tourist destinations, Salalah offers an enticing array of options to explore.

This comprehensive guide to visiting Salalah and Dhofar will furnish you with valuable insights into the vibrant realm of tourism in this region.

Where is Salalah?

Salalah is nestled in the southern region of the Sultanate of Oman, a captivating country located on the southeastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula. It’s a city that enjoys a unique geographical position, bordered by the azure waters of the Arabian Sea to the south and the rugged landscapes of the Dhofar mountain range to the north.

The city is the capital of the Dhofar Governorate, an area renowned for its lush landscapes, contrasting with the arid surroundings typically associated with the desert. This exceptional location grants Salalah a distinct microclimate that sets it apart from the rest of Oman, resulting in its lush greenery, particularly during the Khareef season, a time of year when monsoon rains transform the city’s surroundings into a verdant paradise.

With its prime location along the coast and the fertile plains of Dhofar, Salalah has become a hub of economic and cultural activity in the region. Its strategic position has fostered a rich history of trade, connecting the Arabian Peninsula to Africa and beyond. As the second-largest city in Oman, Salalah’s modern infrastructure, combined with its historical significance and breathtaking natural beauty, makes it an alluring destination for both local and international visitors.

Why is Salalah Famous?

Salalah is well-known for its beautiful landscapes and great weather. People like to visit Salalah, Oman during two different times of the year. The first and most popular time is called the Khareef season, when everything turns green and lively. The other popular time to visit is during the winter season.

Different types of tourists come to Salalah during these two seasons. And the places to visit and things to do are also different. This guide will give you helpful information to plan your trip to Salalah better and make it more memorable.

Seasons in Salalah

Before you learn about the places to visit, it’s important to understand the seasons because they affect what you can do and see. Let’s take a closer look at these two seasons:

Khareef Season in Salalah

Khareef, which translates to “Autumn” in Arabic, stands as the dominant season in Salalah. This stretch of time, from late June to early September annually, ushers in the most inviting weather in the city. Referred to as the Khareef season, it is synonymous with the English term “monsoon season”.

During this period, Salalah experiences refreshing rains, fostering a delightful ambiance that breathes life into the region. These showers lead to the emergence of numerous waterfalls and springs among the mountains, some of which remain even beyond this season. However, many of these natural wonders are transient, disappearing once the season concludes.

The Khareef season draws a throng of visitors to Salalah, especially from within Oman and neighboring Gulf States, where scorching temperatures prevail. In stark contrast, Salalah enjoys temperatures ranging from 20 to 25 degrees Celsius during this season, creating a marked disparity. This variance in climate makes Salalah a sought-after summer retreat for residents across the Middle East.

Additionally, European and Western expatriates residing in the region also flock to Salalah during Khareef to relish the refreshing temperature shift. Salalah’s accessibility is noteworthy, being a mere 2 to 3 hours’ flight away from most of the Arabian Peninsula’s capital cities.

Given the heightened tourist activity during this peak season, it is strongly advised to secure sightseeing tours and hotel stay well in advance to avoid missing out on the opportunity due to full bookings.

For more details about this amazing season, read the post What is Khareef Season?

The Winter Season

The winter season stands as another favored period among tourists. This season spans from October through April each year, encompassing the months of October, November, December, January, February, March, and April. Throughout these months, the climate tends to be clear, marked by abundant sunshine and the absence of rain. Additionally, the beaches experience regular tidal patterns during this time.

During the aforementioned months, tourists hailing from European countries often flock to Salalah, seeking respite from the chilly temperatures in their home nations while indulging in a holiday getaway. The tourists are especially from Italy, Poland, Germany, France, and Chez Republic.

Within this article, we will present an exploration of the notable destinations to visit in Salalah during both the Khareef and winter seasons. This comprehensive guide aims to provide a thorough understanding of the city’s attractions during these distinct periods.

What is the best time to visit Salalah?

With Salalah experiencing two distinct seasons, a question often asked by visitors pertains to the ideal time for their Salalah sojourn. Fortunately, the answer is straightforward.

For those yearning to witness the spectacle of seasonal waterfalls, enveloping fog, mystical mist, and the transformative monsoon rains that adorn the mountains with lush greenery, August emerges as the prime month to visit Salalah.

Conversely, if the aim is to revel in the captivating landscapes and beaches, the winter months are deemed the most suitable for a Salalah expedition. During this period, the sun graces the days with warmth while maintaining a comfortable temperature, rendering the winter season the optimal time to explore the picturesque beauty of Salalah.

Best Places to Visit and Things to Do in Salalah

Salalah boasts an array of captivating destinations waiting to be explored. The following are a selection of the enticing places to visit and activities to partake in while in Salalah.

1. Pray at Sultan Qaboos Mosque

Sultan Qaboos Mosque is the largest mosque, not only in Salalah, but in Dhofar Region and outside of Muscat and Nizwa.

Situated at the heart of the city, this mosque is a grand testament to Islamic design, exemplifying its splendor. The prayer hall is adorned with ornate chandeliers, green carpeting, and intricate wall patterns, encapsulating the essence of Islamic aesthetics.

This is all year round attraction. So visitors in khareef season as well as other parts of the year can visit the Mosque. It’s worth noting that non-Muslims can explore the interior of the main prayer hall every morning, excluding Fridays.

This place is covered in City Tour and can be added as a stop in other amazing tours run by Beautiful Salalah Tours.

Further Reading: Sultan Qaboos Masjid Salalah

2. Explore the Beautiful Waterfalls

The best part of the Khareef in Salalah is the pleasant weather, drizzling, mountains turning green and the waterfalls. These waterfall will be available only in the Khareef season and depends on the amount of rain.

There are some really nice waterfalls, which are a must to see. Like Ayn Athum , Ayn Khor , Ayn Gogub, Ayn Hamran, Ayn Ghaith, etc.

Further Reading: Detailed Post on All Waterfalls in Salalah

As a word of caution, most of mountains in Dhofar has fog in the khareef season and most of the time, the visibility is very low. It is better to book the sightseeing tour to experience these sites with the local Omani experienced guides. Contact us and we can help you on this matter.

In addition to the waterfall, many springs in Salalah are highlight of Khareef as well as winter season. For instance, Ayn Sahalnoot, Ayn Razat , Ayn Jarziz are captivating springs in Salalah, each offering its own unique charm.

Since it is peak tourist season, we highly recommend you to book the accommodation before they are fully booked.

3. Paddle the Boat at the Wadi Darbat, Oman

Without a doubt, the boat ride along the natural canal at Wadi Darbat is an absolute must-do activity. This valley stands as one of Dhofar’s most popular attractions, drawing numerous visitors. Beyond the motorized boat excursion, individuals can also choose to explore the watercourse on paddle boats or kayaks.

Adding to its allure, this valley showcases two splendid waterfalls, which emerged in 2018. Known as the cascade waterfall, it’s characterized by its interconnected streams flowing through the valley. The second waterfall descends dramatically from the cliff’s edge, forming an impressive Travertine Curtain. Further Reading: Wadi Darbat – A Must Visit Destination in Dhofar

This is a year round destination. Therefore, anyone who visits Salalah at any time of the year can enjoy the beauty of this valley.

The tour to Wadi Darbat is included in both the Half Day East Salalah Tour and the Full Day East Salalah Tour . These are mostly private tour in 4×4 SUV for your family. But on request group tours can also be arranged.

4. Get Yourself Soaked with Water Splashes at Mughsail Blowholes

Mughsail Beach and Blowholes (also called geysers and natural fountains) at Marneef cave are the most visited place on the Western side of Salalah. The landscape of Mughsail Beach is stunning and the natural fountains are mesmerising. This is a year round tourist destination as well.

The natural fountains have more height in khareef season. However, in the other part of the year, these water jets are present but are not going that high.

Bird watching is a popular activity at Mughsail Lagoon. Moreover, horse riding and making barbecue are other popular activities on this beautiful beach. A day out at Marneef Cave, Al Mughsayl Blowholes and Mughsayl Beach is an ultimate picnic experience. No doubt, this can be visited in any time of the year.

Further Reading:

• Mughsail Beach – A Must Visit Beach
• Detailed Post on Marneef Cave and Mughsail Blowholes
• List of Stunning White Sand Beaches in Salalah

5. Discover Land of Frankincense – The UNESCO World Heritage Sites

As per UNESCO World Heritage site , there are four components that make Land of Frankincense. These sites are Al Baleed Archeological Site, Sumharam Old City (khor Rori), Wubar Archeological Site and Wadi Dawkah.

The first two are the ancient sea ports – Sumhuram (4th century BC to the 5th century AD) and Al Baleed (8th century till 16th century AD). From here Frankincense was shipped to other parts of world including Africa, Europe, India and China.

Frankincense was inland traded via the Lost city of Ubar. This outpost was close to Shisr, about 170 km inland of Salalah and in close proximity to the Great Sand Desert of Empty Quarter (Rub Al Khali).

The forth one on the list is Wadi Dawkah, which is an outstanding example of the frankincense plantation (Boswellia Sacra) area. From these trees, the resin was produced, collected and then traded.

All of these sites in UNESCO World Heritage list, can be visited throughout the year. Further Reading:

• Al Baleed Archeological Site in Salalah City
• The Museum of The Frankincense Land
• The Lost City of Ubar at Shisr
• Sumhuram Archaeological Site at Khor Rori
• Wadi Dawkah Frankincense Park

6. Sand Bashing at The Sand Desert of Empty Quarter Oman (Rub Al Khali)

Empty Quarter Oman is one of the most famous desert in the world. Also, it is one of the largest desert in the world. It is located after 2 hours drive on the North side from Salalah, Oman.

The desert has a lot of uniqueness and is a huge pile of Sand. Interestingly, Empty Quarter extends in 4 countries in Arabian Peninsula. Oman is one of these.

The desert can only be visited with guide and Beautiful Salalah Tours can arrange this trip for you. These guides are Omanis and know Salalah pretty well. Desert adventure needs an experienced driver. You can drop an email to  [email protected]  or book via TripAdvisor .

 There are 2 sightseeing options for Empty Quarter Oman. One is the Sunset Tour, while the other one is with an overnight stay at the desert in Bedouin Tents. Desert is only recommended for visit in winter (from October to April) due to temperature. Further Reading: The Ultimate Guide about Empty Quarter Oman – One of the Largest Desert in the World

7. A Picnic at Fazayah Beach with Camels

Fazayah is one of the most popular beaches in Dhofar. Known for its pristine and nature, Fazayah Beach is located on the western side after Mughsail Beach and Masood Hidden Beach. The road to the beach is off-road and we highly recommend you to book the guided tour to experience it in the best possible way.

You will find lots of camel in Fazayah Beach and they will be guests on your picnic at the pristine beach. Whether you are visiting Salalah in Khareef or winter, this should be on your Salalah places to visit.

• Fazayah Beach – The Beach you must visit
• Masood Hidden Beach of Mughsail

8. Pay Visit to Tombs of Prophets in Salalah

Salalah has tombs of four prophets. These are Prophet Ayub, Prophet Hood, Prophet Saleh and Prophet Imran.

Firstly, the Prophet Ayub (Prophet Job) Tombs is in the top of the hill in Jebel Ittin. He is known for the patience during the trials. The drive from Salalah city to Jebel Ittin is quite pleasant, and memorable. It will take around 30 minutes to reach the tomb.

During Khareef Season, the mountains are covered with fog and sometimes the visibility is very low on the roads. This could make driving on the mountain road quite challenging, especially for those who are not used to drive on the mountainous tracks. It’s advisable to go on a guided tour, with experienced driver to be on the safer side.

Secondly, Prophet Hood’s Tomb is located at 20 minutes drive on the Northern side of Salalah. He was a prophet sent towards the tribe of Ad, who are mentioned multiple time in Quran.

Thirdly, the other notable tomb is that of Nabi Imran. It is not clear who is Nabi Imran. He could be father of Prophet Mosa (Prophet Moses), or Grand Father of Prophet Issa (Prophet Moses) or another Prophet. The length of the tomb is around 12 meters, which makes it one of the largest in the world.

Fourthly, Prophet Saleh Tomb is located on the Eastern Side of Salalah, some 2 hours drive away from the City Center. However, a site in the city is famous for the footprint of a camel (Prophet Saleh’s camel) and it is also visited by many. This camel was sent as a sign to the Tribe of Samood (Quam e Samood).

• The Tomb of Nabi Ayub in Jebel Ittin
• Nabi Hood Tomb in Al Qara Mountains
• The Tomb of Nabi Umran in Salalah City
• Nabi Saleh Tomb in Hasik
• The footprint of Prophet Saleh’s Camel

9. Shop at the Souks in Salalah

Salalah has several souks (also spelled as souq), which are basically traditional style markets.

The most popular one is that of Haffa. Al Hosn Souk (also known as Al Haffa Souk, and Frankincense Souk) is an open air market besides the beach in Haffa district. This souk is specialized market in selling of Frankincense, Bukhoor, Perfumes, traditional clothes, other souvenirs and day to day use items.

Second souk on the list is Salalah Central Market. It is a relatively newer souk in Salalah City Center. This market has a lot of shop, mostly of fish, meat and fruits and vegetables. In addition to the shops, there are some restaurants as well.

The third souq is Gold Souk. Here, you will find gold and silver ornaments, traditional Omani Khanjar and other souvenirs. It’s not big, but it’s nearby to Central Market and Sultan Qaboos Mosque.

Last but not the least, Salalah has a new air-conditioned souk in one of the modern shopping mall. This is Souk in Salalah Gardens Mall. It sells Frankincense, traditional clothes and perfumes.

• Al Hosn Souk – The Frankincense Souk in Salalah
• Salalah Central Market in City Center
• Gold Souk – The place to buy Gold and Silver Jewelry
• Salalah Gardens Mall – The first Modern Shopping Mall in Salalah

10. Experience Sunset from the Cliff at Taqa Beach

Taqah is the nearest wilayat from Salalah on the Eastern site. The beach is beautiful. The cliff at the end of the corniche is one of the best spot to experience a wonderful sunset. Experience an unforgettable sunset from above the Indian Ocean and white sand shore, with a great view of Taqa City.

Taqa Beach is a paradise for Bird Waters in the morning. The entire white sand shore is full with birds.

Further Reading: Taqa Beach and Other Places to visit in Taqah

11. Adventure of Jebel Safari – A Drive to Remember

The drive on the mountains in Dhofar is an unforgottenable expereince. This is one the things to do in Salalah. Locally this is called Jebel Safari. Jebel is an Arabic word for mountain.

Dhofar mountains comprise of 3 renowned chain. Al Qara mountain (Jebel Al Qara), Jebel Shams and Al Qamar Mountains (Jebel Al Qamar).

Salalah city has mountains on its Norther and Eastern side. These are Al Qara mountains. The famous Ittin mountains, Wadi Sahalnoot, Zeek, Wadi Darbat, Wadi Naheez and other valleys are in Al Qara mountains.

• Explore Wadi Naheez
• Ittin Mountains
• Wadi Sahalnoot

At the eastern end, the Samhan mountains form the highest point in Dhofar. Its highest peak reaches 2,100 meters. Here you can see dense clouds below you, especially in khareef season. A perfect view point for capturing the time lapse of clouds movement.

On the western side of Salalah, after Fazayah Beach, the mountains of Al Qamar will captivate your attention. This will continue in Shaat, Rakhyut and Dhalkut. Just for information, this side is visited by tourists who have more time, as a trip to Dhalkut will take the entire day.

Our experienced guide will take you to the hidden beaches and fascinating landscapes. The hairpin road is popular highway to reach to this part of Dhofar, which has bends every few meters. The guide knows how to drive here even with fog as he knows the route.

• The Hidden Beach in Shaat – An Off-Road Track
• Places to Visit in Dhalkut
• Rakhyut and its Tourist Attractions

12. Discover Marine Life by Dolphin Watching Cruise & Diving

Salalah has diversifed marine life and coral. Moreover, there is a ship wreck in Mirbat as well. The underwater marine life, coral and ship wreck can be discovered by diving in Mirbat. Beautiful Salalah Tours arrange diving with pick and drop from the hotel.

If you don’t want to dive, you can do snorkeling instead. This is also arranged with the experienced staff and with all the gadgets required for diving and snorkeling.

Moreover, another way to explore the marine life is by cruise in Indian Ocean. The trips on speed boats make you see the humpback dolphins in their natural habitants and sometimes jumping as well.

Snorkeling, Scuba Diving and Dolphin watching tours are arranged only from October to May. Due to high tides in khareef season, these activities are not performed. To arrange any of these contact us and we would be happy to assist you.

Additional Tip: You can plan a visit to Mirbat after diving. Mirbat has a beautiful coast, a castle, fishing port, fish market, an old town and mausoleum of Bin Ali.

• Dolphin Watching in Salalah, Oman
• Diving in Mirbat
• Guide to Mirbat City, Old Town and Beaches

13. Trek at Tawi Attair Sinkhole

Tawi Atair Sinkhole Oman is the most famous sinkhole in the Dhofar. This sink hole is located in Tawi Atair, Eastern side of Salalah, after Taqa and Wadi Darbat and Before Mirbat.

You can go down this sinkhole either by trekking on the steep muddy trek or by rope access. Both of these can be arranged by Beautiful Salalah Tours, who is with you during Salalah Places to Visit.

There are two more sinkholes, which you can visit. These are Shaat Sinkhole and Taiq Sinkhole (also spelled as Tayq or Taeq Sinkhole).

All of these sinkholes are year round destination. Further Reading:

• Tawi Attair Sinkhole
• The Sinkhole at Taiq
• Shaat Sinkhole

14.  Experience Car Drive at Neutral Gear at Salalah Anti Gravity Point

Its an amazing experience to see the car going up the hill at Neutral gear (without any acceleration) at Salalah Anti Gravity Point (also known as Magnetic Point, or Gravity Hill). This is a really something unique. The car can move at a speed of 40 to 60 kilometers per hour without any acceleration.

Additional Tip: Just few meters away from the baffling site of Magnetic Point, you will find Baobab Trees in Wadi Hana. This is an impressive botanical reminder of Dhofar’s link with Africa.

• Salalah Anti Gravity Point Before Mirbat
• Baobab Trees in Wadi Hana near Anti Gravity Point

15. Sip Fresh Coconut Drink at Fruit Huts

Fruit Huts in Salalah are famous for the fresh fruits particularly coconut. Having coconut drink at tropical style fruit huts (stalls) is a refreshing activity, recommended for all.

Further Reading:  Coconut Drink from Beautiful Fruit Huts in Salalah

16. Get Inside the Castle in Dhofar

There are 2 prominent castle / Fort in Dhofar Region. The first one is Taqa Castle, which is located in the wilayat of Taqa. Whereas the other one is Mirbat Fort, located in Mirbat.

Moreover, there is one Palace in Salalah – Al Hosn Palace, which can be seen from outside only. This is in the middle of Salalah City right next to Haffa Souk. This is one of the palaces of Sultan in Oman. Entrance is not permitted.

• Taqa Castle in Taqah, Oman
• Mirbat Fort in Mirbat, Oman
• Al Hosn Palace in Salalah, Oman

Guided Tour In Salalah and Around

For booking the tour, you can contact Beautiful Salalah Tours, which is the leading online tour operator in Salalah. The company arranges the tour with the licensed guide, who are Omanis and know Salalah pretty well.

Booking the memorable tour with professional team of Beautiful Salalah is very easy. Just drop a Whatsapp message to our 24/7 customer support numbers  +968 9120 6678  or  +968 9012 3004  and book the trip.

Alternately, you can drop an email to  [email protected]  or book via TripAdvisor.

Beautiful Salalah Tours has 4.5 star review in TripAdvisor and is operating in Salalah since 2018. You can  read all the reviews on TripAdvisor  before making a decision.

Recommended Place To Stay In Salalah

For a memorable and comfortable family vacation, the best place to stay in Dhofar is in the city of Salalah. There are  Over 100 Hotels and Apartments on Booking.com for Salalah , which you can consider for your comfortable and memorable stay.

Below are our recommendations:

Luxury: Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara

There couldn’t be any better choice of staying in Salalah other than Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara. This is the finest and premium resort in the city with private pool villas, which are not available in other resorts.

The location of Anantara is excellent. It is next to the famous tourist location of Al Baleed Archeological Site, Frankincense Land Museum and is on the white sand beach of the Arabian Sea.

Indeed, it is a great place to have a fun filled family vacation.  Check prices, reviews, and availability here

Mid Range: Fanar Hotel and Residences

Although Fanar Hotel and Residences is a 5 star resort, its price is almost equal to that of a 3 star hotel in the center of the city. It is located at  Hawana Salalah Marina , and is by far the largest resort in Salalah.

The only drawback is that this hotel a little away from the city. But hotel will arrange the airport transfers, so there is nothing to worry about. Also if you have rent a car, or are planning to book guided tours by Beautiful Salalah then it’s an ideal pick.  Check prices, reviews, and availability here

Budget: Star House Elite

There are many apartments by the name of Star House, but this one is preferred as it is a nice apartment in the center of the city. There are many restaurants, including Indian cuisine and local food, at walking distance. It’s right opposite of the largest mosque in Salalah – Sultan Qaboos Mosque .

The most unique feature of this apartment is that its on the bus route of Mwasalat public transport and you can arrive here from airport using the bus.  Also Star House Elite is at walking distance from the bus station of Mwasalat, GTC, GLT, and other intercity buses.   Check prices, reviews, and availability here

The ultimate guide for Salalah Places to Visit ends here. If there is any place that is missed, you can write in comment. If you want to visit any of these places, write to us and we can arrange the sightseeing torus for solo, family, or group.

Is Salalah Worth Visiting?

Off-course Salalah is worth visiting. It’s a very unique place in the world – not just in Arabia and Middle East. The place has all what you can imagine – desert, beaches, mountains, waterfalls, springs, sinkholes, caves. In addition to these amazing landscapes, Salalah has delicious cuisine, friendly people, safe environment and pristine nature.

For adventure lovers, Salalah also has many things to offer. Salalah also offers camping options for those who want to spend time in the nature.

All of these are mentioned in the tourist guide above. So what are you waiting for. Just book the tickets, hotels and tours and come to this beautiful place. Thats why we call it Beautiful Salalah .

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Salalah Oman: The Hidden Gem of the Arabian Peninsula

Oman is a country in the Arabian Peninsula known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cities. Among the many wonders that Oman has to offer, Salalah stands out as a hidden gem that many travelers have yet to discover. Salalah is a coastal city in southern Oman, known for its lush greenery, stunning beaches, and unique weather patterns. In this article, we will explore the beauty and charm of Salalah, Oman, and why it’s a must-visit destination.

1. Introduction

Salalah is the capital city of the Dhofar region in southern Oman. The city is located on the coast of the Arabian Sea and has a population of approximately 250,000 people. Salalah is known for its unique climate, which is influenced by the seasonal monsoon winds, known as the Khareef. The Khareef brings heavy rainfall to the region, transforming the landscape into a lush green paradise.

2. The Climate of Salalah

Salalah’s climate is characterized by two distinct seasons: the Khareef season and the dry season. The Khareef season starts in June and lasts until September, during which time the city experiences heavy rainfall, mist, and fog. The rainfall brings a cool breeze to the region, and the temperature drops to around 20°C, making it a perfect escape from the scorching heat of the Arabian Peninsula. The dry season, on the other hand, starts from October and lasts until May, during which time the city experiences hot and humid weather, with temperatures reaching up to 40°C.

3. The Beauty of Salalah’s Landscapes

Salalah’s landscapes are nothing short of breathtaking. The city is surrounded by rolling hills, mountain ranges, and beautiful beaches. The Jebel Samhan mountain range is one of the most popular attractions in the city, offering visitors stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The city is also home to beautiful beaches, such as Al Mughsail Beach, where visitors can enjoy swimming, surfing, and picnicking.

4. The Unique Flora and Fauna of Salalah

Salalah’s unique climate and topography have led to the development of a diverse range of flora and fauna in the region. The Khareef season brings a burst of life to the region, with the landscape transforming into a lush green paradise. The region is home to several rare and endemic species of plants and animals, including the Arabian leopard, the Arabian tahr, and the frankincense tree.

5. The History and Culture of Salalah

Salalah has a rich cultural heritage that dates back to ancient times. The city was an important trading hub in the region, with trade routes connecting it to India, East Africa, and the Arabian Peninsula. The city is also known for its unique traditions, such as the annual Khareef festival, which celebrates the arrival of the monsoon winds. The festival features traditional dance performances, music, and food.

6. Things to Do in Salalah

Salalah offers visitors a plethora of activities and attractions to explore. One of the top attractions in the city is the Al Baleed Archaeological Site, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The site includes the ruins of an ancient city that dates back to the 12th century. Visitors can explore the remains of the city’s grand mosque, tombs, and fortifications.

Another must-visit attraction in Salalah is the Frankincense Land Museum, which is dedicated to the history and importance of frankincense in the region. The museum features interactive exhibits, a working frankincense distillery, and a gift shop where visitors can purchase frankincense products.

For nature lovers, the Wadi Darbat nature reserve is a must-visit. The reserve is located in the Jabal Qara mountain range and features stunning waterfalls, natural pools, and hiking trails. Visitors can enjoy a picnic by the waterfalls or take a scenic hike through the mountains.

7. The Delightful Cuisine of Salalah

Salalah’s cuisine is a blend of Arabian and East African influences, with an emphasis on seafood and spices. One of the most popular dishes in the region is machboos, which is a spicy rice dish made with meat or fish. Other popular dishes include shuwa, which is a slow-roasted lamb dish, and saloona, which is a spicy vegetable stew.

8. Accommodation Options in Salalah

Salalah offers a range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. From luxurious resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses, visitors can find a comfortable place to stay in the city. Some of the top hotels in Salalah include the Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara, the Crowne Plaza Resort Salalah, and the Hilton Salalah Resort.

9. The Best Time to Visit Salalah

The best time to visit Salalah is during the Khareef season, which starts in June and lasts until September. During this time, the landscape is transformed into a lush green paradise, and the temperature drops to a comfortable level. However, visitors should be aware that the Khareef season is also the peak tourist season, and accommodations can be more expensive and harder to find.

10. How to Get to Salalah

Salalah is easily accessible by air, with regular flights from major cities in the Middle East and Asia. The city’s airport is located approximately 10 kilometers from the city center, and visitors can take a taxi or rent a car to reach their destination.

11. Safety and Security in Salalah

Salalah is a safe and welcoming city for visitors, with a low crime rate and friendly locals. However, visitors should be aware of their surroundings and take precautions to avoid theft or other petty crimes.

12. Useful Tips for Traveling to Salalah

• Be sure to pack appropriate clothing for the climate, including lightweight and breathable fabrics for the dry season and rain gear for the Khareef season.
• Visitors should be respectful of the local customs and traditions, particularly when visiting mosques or other religious sites.
• Tipping is not expected in Salalah, but it is always appreciated.
• Visitors should carry a copy of their passport and other important documents with them at all times.

13. Conclusion

Salalah, Oman, is a hidden gem that offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, history, and culture. From stunning landscapes and unique flora and fauna to delicious cuisine and welcoming locals, Salalah has something for everyone. Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or simply looking for a relaxing getaway, Salalah should be on your list of must-visit destinations.

4. Frequently Asked Questions about Salalah

• What is the best time to visit Salalah? The best time to visit Salalah is during the Khareef season, which starts in June and lasts until September. During this time, the landscape is transformed into a lush green paradise, and the temperature drops to a comfortable level.
• What are the top attractions in Salalah? Some of the top attractions in Salalah include the Al Baleed Archaeological Site, the Frankincense Land Museum, and the Wadi Darbat nature reserve.
• What is the cuisine like in Salalah? Salalah’s cuisine is a blend of Arabian and East African influences, with an emphasis on seafood and spices. Some popular dishes include machboos, shuwa, and saloona.
• Is Salalah a safe city for tourists? Yes, Salalah is a safe and welcoming city for tourists, with a low crime rate and friendly locals. However, visitors should still take precautions to avoid theft or other petty crimes.
• How do I get to Salalah? Salalah is easily accessible by air, with regular flights from major cities in the Middle East and Asia. The city’s airport is located approximately 10 kilometers from the city center, and visitors can take a taxi or rent a car to reach their destination.

34+ Tourist Places in Salalah: A Guide to the Best of Salalah

• May 25, 2023
• Reading Time: 20 minutes

Welcome to the enchanting city of Salalah, a hidden gem nestled in the southern region of Oman. Known for its breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and pleasant climate, Salalah offers a unique and captivating experience for travelers.

In this comprehensive guide, we will take you on a journey through the best tourist places in Salalah, showcasing the city’s main attractions and hidden treasures. From historical landmarks to natural wonders, from vibrant markets to serene waterfalls, Salalah has something for every traveler’s taste.

Whether you’re a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or simply seeking a tranquil escape, Salalah’s diverse offerings will leave you in awe. Join us as we unveil the 34+ best places to visit in Salalah, ensuring that you don’t miss any of the must-see destinations during your visit.

Get ready to immerse yourself in the beauty and charm of Salalah and create memories that will last a lifetime. Let’s begin this exciting journey through the wonders of Salalah!

34+ Best Places to Visit in Salalah

The museum of the frankincense land:.

One of the most famous places in Salalah, the Museum of the Frankincense Land is a fascinating cultural institution that takes you on a journey through the history and significance of the frankincense trade in the region. Explore the exhibits that showcase the ancient artifacts, archaeological discoveries, and interactive displays, providing insights into the thriving trade routes and the importance of frankincense in the local economy. Gain a deeper understanding of the rich cultural heritage of Salalah and its connection to this precious aromatic resin.

Nabi Imran Tomb:

Visit the Nabi Imran Tomb, a revered religious site that holds significant historical and spiritual importance. This mausoleum is believed to be the burial place of Nabi Imran, the father of Maryam (Mary), who is revered in Islamic tradition. Admire the beautiful architecture of the tomb, which reflects the region’s traditional Islamic design elements. Take a moment for quiet contemplation and reflection in this serene and sacred place.

Ain Razat is a tranquil oasis located in the heart of Salalah, offering respite from the arid surroundings. This natural spring is surrounded by lush greenery, palm trees, and vibrant flowers, creating a serene and picturesque setting. Take a leisurely stroll along the pathways, enjoy a picnic by the water’s edge, or simply relax and take in the peaceful ambiance. The cool, refreshing waters of Ain Razat provide a delightful escape from the heat and offer a soothing experience for visitors.

Salalah Gardens Mall:

For a modern shopping experience, head to Salalah Gardens Mall, a premier shopping destination in Salalah. This expansive mall boasts a wide range of retail outlets, including international brands, local boutiques, and specialty stores. Explore the various sections of the mall, from fashion and accessories to electronics and home goods. Indulge in some retail therapy, browse the latest trends, and enjoy a memorable shopping experience in a vibrant and contemporary setting.

Places to Visit in Salalah During Khareef

Salalah is renowned for its unique weather phenomenon known as Khareef, which brings cool temperatures, misty landscapes, and lush greenery to the region. Explore the following attractions that are particularly enchanting during this season:

Wadi Darbat:

Wadi Darbat is a must-visit destination during Khareef. This picturesque valley transforms into a verdant paradise, with cascading waterfalls, flowing streams, and vibrant flora. Take a leisurely hike along the winding trails, marvel at the natural beauty around you, and immerse yourself in the serene atmosphere of this hidden gem.

Mughsail Beach:

Mughsail Beach is a stunning coastal area that captivates visitors with its rugged cliffs, pristine shores, and dramatic blowholes. During Khareef, the beach becomes even more alluring as the waves crash against the cliffs, creating a mesmerizing display of natural power. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the sandy shores, soak up the breathtaking views, and witness the raw beauty of the ocean.

Jebel Ittin and Ayn Gharziz:

Jebel Ittin and Ayn Gharziz are two natural attractions that offer a unique experience during Khareef. Jebel Ittin is a mountain known for its mist-covered peaks and lush vegetation, providing a serene backdrop for nature lovers. Ayn Gharziz, located at the foot of Jebel Ittin, is a natural spring that forms a series of pools, perfect for a refreshing dip. Explore the trails, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and bask in the tranquility of these hidden treasures.

Taqah Castle:

Taqah Castle is a historical fortress that provides a glimpse into the region’s rich heritage. Built in the 19th century, the castle showcases traditional Omani architecture and offers insights into the area’s defensive strategies. Step inside to explore its well-preserved rooms, courtyards, and towers, and learn about the castle’s significance in the local history. The castle’s location near the coastline also offers picturesque views of the surrounding landscape.

Places to Visit in Salalah in July

Salalah in July offers a unique experience for travelers seeking to explore this captivating region. Although Khareef season is not in full swing during this time, there are still plenty of attractions to discover. Here are some noteworthy places to visit in Salalah in July:

Hawana Aqua Park:

Beat the summer heat and make a splash at Hawana Aqua Park. This family-friendly water park offers a thrilling array of slides, pools, and water attractions that guarantee hours of fun and excitement. From adrenaline-pumping water slides to relaxing lazy rivers, there’s something for everyone at this vibrant aquatic playground.

Qasr Al Hosn:

Explore the rich history of Salalah by visiting Qasr Al Hosn, a historic fort that stands as a testament to the region’s architectural and cultural heritage. Dating back to the 19th century, this well-preserved fort showcases traditional Omani craftsmanship and provides a glimpse into the past. Take a guided tour to learn about the fort’s significance and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Fazayah Beach:

Unwind and soak up the sun at Fazayah Beach, a pristine stretch of coastline known for its soft white sands and crystal-clear waters. Whether you’re looking to swim, snorkel, or simply relax under the shade of a palm tree, Fazayah Beach offers a tranquil retreat away from the bustling city. Enjoy a leisurely beach day, indulge in a picnic, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Salalah’s coastal paradise.

Places to Visit Near Salalah

If you’re looking to venture beyond the city limits of Salalah, there are several captivating destinations nearby that are worth exploring. Here are a few notable places to visit near Salalah:

Ayn Khor is a natural spring located just a short drive from Salalah. Surrounded by lush vegetation and towering palm trees, this serene oasis provides a refreshing escape from the desert landscape. Take a dip in the cool turquoise waters, explore the surrounding trails, and enjoy a peaceful picnic in this hidden gem of tranquility.

Korr Jebel:

For outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers, Korr Jebel is a must-visit destination. This rugged mountain range offers thrilling hiking opportunities, scenic viewpoints, and the chance to witness breathtaking panoramic vistas of Salalah and its surrounding landscapes. Lace up your hiking boots, embark on an unforgettable journey, and marvel at the beauty of nature unfolding before your eyes.

Ain Sahlounout:

Ain Sahlounout is a natural freshwater spring nestled in the heart of the mountains near Salalah. Surrounded by lush greenery and picturesque cliffs, this hidden gem offers a serene setting for relaxation and contemplation. Enjoy a peaceful stroll along the trails, listen to the soothing sounds of the flowing water, and connect with nature in this tranquil oasis.

Ain Hamran:

Ain Hamran is a captivating natural attraction that showcases the beauty of Salalah’s landscapes. This natural spring is nestled amidst rugged mountains and lush vegetation, creating a picturesque setting for exploration. Take a leisurely walk along the trails, breathe in the crisp mountain air, and let the tranquility of Ain Hamran rejuvenate your senses.

Historical Places in Salalah

Salalah is steeped in history and boasts a rich cultural heritage. Exploring the city’s historical sites allows you to delve into its fascinating past. Here are some historical places in Salalah that should be on your itinerary:

Al Baleed Archeological Park:

Step back in time at the Al Baleed Archeological Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site that offers a glimpse into the ancient port city of Zafar. Explore the well-preserved ruins, including the remnants of a grand mosque, fortifications, and residential areas. The informative museum within the park provides further insights into the region’s maritime history, showcasing artifacts and exhibits that shed light on Salalah’s past as a bustling trading hub.

Located in the western part of Salalah, Al Haffa is a charming neighborhood known for its old-world charm and traditional architecture. Stroll through its narrow winding streets, lined with old houses and colorful shops selling local handicrafts and souvenirs. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere, browse the bustling markets, and experience the authentic Omani hospitality that characterizes this historic neighborhood.

Jabal Samhan:

Nature and history intertwine at Jabal Samhan, a mountain range overlooking Salalah. Besides offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the surrounding landscapes, Jabal Samhan is home to ancient rock formations and archaeological sites. Explore the rock-cut tombs, marvel at the intricate carvings, and imagine the lives of those who once inhabited these highlands.

Places to Visit in Salalah in December

December brings a different allure to Salalah, with pleasant weather and a sense of tranquility. Here are some enchanting places to visit in Salalah during this time of year:

Anantara Spa at Al Baleed Resort Salalah:

Indulge in a rejuvenating spa experience at the Anantara Spa, nestled within the luxurious Al Baleed Resort. Treat yourself to pampering rituals inspired by ancient wellness traditions, utilizing natural ingredients to soothe your body and mind. From relaxing massages to revitalizing treatments, this tranquil oasis offers a perfect retreat for ultimate relaxation and rejuvenation.

Yasameen Spa:

Yasameen Spa is another sanctuary of wellness and serenity, located in the heart of Salalah. Surrender yourself to a world of bliss as skilled therapists guide you through an array of therapeutic treatments. Experience the healing properties of traditional Omani rituals, invigorating massages, and indulgent beauty treatments, leaving you feeling refreshed, renewed, and ready to embrace the holiday season.

Arabian Fly Sport Fishing:

For fishing enthusiasts, December in Salalah offers exciting opportunities to cast your line and test your angling skills. Join a fishing excursion with Arabian Fly Sport Fishing and embark on a thrilling adventure in the Arabian Sea. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner, the experienced guides will ensure a memorable fishing experience as you try your luck at catching a variety of fish species.

Best Hotels in Salalah

Finding the perfect accommodation is essential for a memorable stay in Salalah. The city offers a range of excellent hotels that cater to different preferences and budgets. Here are some of the best hotels in Salalah:

Fanar Hotel and Residences:

Situated along the stunning coastline, Fanar Hotel and Residences is a luxurious beachfront retreat. The hotel boasts elegant rooms and suites with breathtaking sea views, modern amenities, and impeccable service. Guests can unwind by the pool, indulge in spa treatments, savor delicious cuisine at the on-site restaurants, and enjoy direct access to the pristine beach. With its tranquil ambiance and top-notch facilities, Fanar Hotel and Residences promises a truly remarkable stay.

Salalah Beach Resort:

Nestled amidst lush tropical gardens, Salalah Beach Resort offers a serene escape from the bustling city. The resort features spacious rooms and villas with private balconies or terraces, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the surroundings. Take a dip in the swimming pools, savor delectable meals at the beachfront restaurant, and rejuvenate at the spa. The resort’s peaceful ambiance and proximity to the beach make it an ideal choice for those seeking relaxation and tranquility.

Millennium Resort Salalah:

Conveniently located near the city center, Millennium Resort Salalah provides a perfect blend of comfort and convenience. The stylish rooms and suites are well-appointed with modern amenities, and the resort offers a range of facilities including swimming pools, fitness center, and multiple dining options. Guests can explore nearby attractions, indulge in spa treatments, or simply unwind in the beautiful landscaped gardens. With its central location and exceptional hospitality, Millennium Resort Salalah ensures a pleasant and enjoyable stay.

Salalah Rotana Resort:

Situated along the white sandy beaches of the Arabian Sea, Salalah Rotana Resort offers a luxurious coastal getaway. The resort features elegantly designed rooms and suites, all with private balconies overlooking the sea or lush gardens. Guests can relax by the pool, enjoy water sports activities, dine at the various restaurants offering diverse culinary experiences, and rejuvenate at the spa. The resort’s idyllic setting and top-notch amenities make it a popular choice for discerning travelers seeking a truly memorable stay.

Hidden Places in Salalah

Salalah is not only known for its popular tourist attractions but also for its hidden gems waiting to be discovered. If you’re seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences, here are some hidden places in Salalah worth exploring:

Rub’ Al Khali Desert:

Venture into the vast Rub’ Al Khali Desert, also known as the Empty Quarter, for an unforgettable desert adventure. This expansive desert landscape spans across multiple countries and offers a surreal experience of untouched beauty. Marvel at the towering sand dunes, witness mesmerizing sunsets, and immerse yourself in the tranquility of the desert. Whether it’s a thrilling dune bashing excursion, a peaceful camel ride, or a serene night under the starry sky, the Rub’ Al Khali Desert is sure to leave you in awe of nature’s wonders.

Mirbat Salalah:

Travel to the picturesque coastal town of Mirbat, located southeast of Salalah, to discover its unspoiled beauty and historical significance. Explore the old town with its traditional houses and visit the ancient Mirbat Castle, a reminder of the town’s prosperous past as a trading hub. Stroll along the pristine beaches, enjoy fresh seafood at local restaurants, and soak in the laid-back atmosphere of this hidden gem.

Marneef Cave:

Tucked away along the scenic coastline, Marneef Cave is a natural wonder that deserves a visit. This sea cave offers breathtaking views of the turquoise waters and dramatic cliffs. During low tide, you can explore the cave and marvel at its impressive rock formations. Witness the power of the waves crashing against the cliffs, creating a spectacle of nature’s forces. The Marneef Cave is a hidden treasure that showcases the raw beauty of Salalah’s coastline.

Best Places to Visit in Salalah at Night

Salalah offers a captivating ambiance after sunset, with several attractions and activities that come alive in the evening. Here are the best places to visit in Salalah at night:

Salalah by Night Private Tour

Explore the enchanting “garden city” of Salalah on a captivating nighttime sightseeing tour. Accompanied by a private guide, delve into the city’s historical and natural treasures, including the picturesque Dahariz Lagoon, the informative Museum of Frankincense, the majestic Al-Hosn Palace, and the magnificent Sultan Qaboos Mosque.

Additionally, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of local markets, where your knowledgeable guide will assist you in securing great deals and finding unique treasures to take home. Discover the beauty and allure of Salalah under the starry night sky as you uncover its hidden gems and create lasting memories.

Desert Overnight Experience

Embark on an unforgettable journey starting at noon, where we venture northward through the majestic mountains of Dhofar. Join us as we make our way to the mesmerizing Al Rub-al Khali desert, also known as the Ghadaf dunes, immersing yourself in the rich culture of the Arabian Bedouins.

Prepare for an extraordinary adventure as you actively participate in exhilarating desert activities, leaving an indelible mark on your memories. Experience the thrill of dune bashing, navigating the sandy terrain with excitement and adrenaline. As the day draws to a close, delight in a delectable evening dinner and retreat to the renowned Bedouin camp for an overnight stay, fully immersing yourself in the intricacies of desert life. Marvel at the enchanting night sky, basking in the desert’s tranquil ambiance.

Rest assured, our dedicated tour team is committed to ensuring every detail of your journey is meticulously crafted, providing you with a truly unique and unparalleled experience.

Waterfalls in Salalah

Salalah is blessed with natural beauty, and its waterfalls add a touch of magic to the landscape. Here are some mesmerizing waterfalls to visit in Salalah:

Located in the lush Wadi Athum, Ayn Athum is a picturesque waterfall surrounded by towering cliffs and lush greenery. The cascading waters create a soothing ambiance, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and tranquility. Take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear pools or simply bask in the serenity of the surroundings. Ayn Athum is a hidden gem that offers a refreshing escape from the heat and a chance to reconnect with nature.

Situated in the stunning mountains of Salalah, Ayn Gogub is a stunning waterfall nestled amidst a rugged landscape. The waterfall cascades down a series of rocky terraces, creating a mesmerizing sight. Explore the surrounding area and marvel at the diverse flora and fauna that thrive in this oasis-like setting. The tranquil ambiance and breathtaking natural beauty of Ayn Gogub make it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Ayn Tubrook:

Hidden within the scenic valleys of Jebel Samhan, Ayn Tubrook is a captivating waterfall that offers a peaceful retreat. The waterfall plunges into a tranquil pool, inviting visitors to take a refreshing swim or simply relax by the water’s edge. Surrounded by lush vegetation and towering cliffs, Ayn Tubrook is a hidden gem that showcases the pristine beauty of Salalah’s natural landscape. Take a moment to soak in the serenity of this secluded oasis and appreciate the wonders of nature.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the 34+ tourist places in Salalah offer a remarkable blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and cultural richness. From exploring the ancient ruins of Al Baleed Archeological Park to experiencing the lush landscapes during the khareef season, Salalah has something for every traveler.

As you bid farewell to this enchanting city, carry the memories of its welcoming hospitality, pristine beaches, and vibrant souks. Don’t forget to explore the hidden gems that offer tranquility amidst the popular attractions.

Plan your visit based on the seasonal highlights, whether it’s the monsoon season or the cooler months. Salalah’s allure will leave an indelible mark on your heart, beckoning you to return and create more cherished memories.

Thank you for joining us on this journey through the best of Salalah. May your future adventures be filled with joy and the magic of travel. Safe travels until we meet again in the captivating city of Salalah!

Rent a Car in Salalah

When exploring the enchanting city of Salalah, having the freedom to roam at your own pace is essential. That’s where car rental services in Salalah come to your rescue. Whether you wish to immerse yourself in the natural wonders of Wadi Darbat or indulge in retail therapy at Salalah Gardens Mall, renting a car offers convenience and flexibility.

Choose from a wide range of vehicles, including SUVs for off-road adventures or comfortable sedans for city exploration. With reputable car rental companies like Orbit Car Rental & Lease, you can embark on a memorable journey, discovering Salalah’s hidden gems and experiencing the true essence of this captivating destination on your terms. Say goodbye to constraints and embrace the joy of independent exploration with a rented car in Salalah.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: what is special in salalah.

A: Salalah is renowned for its unique monsoon season, known as the khareef, which transforms the region into a lush green paradise. The city is also famous for its stunning beaches, historical sites such as the Al Baleed Archeological Park, and its warm Omani hospitality.

Q: Can I rent a car in Salalah?

A: Yes, you can easily rent a car in Salalah. There are several car rental agencies available in the city that offer a range of vehicles to suit your needs and preferences.

Q: How many days are required to visit Salalah?

A: The ideal duration to explore Salalah depends on your travel preferences and the activities you wish to engage in. To experience the main attractions and immerse yourself in the beauty of the region, a minimum of 3-4 days is recommended. However, for a more comprehensive exploration, you may consider extending your stay to a week or more.

Q: What do I need to rent a car in Salalah?

A: To rent a car in Salalah, you typically need a valid driving license, a passport or ID, and a credit card for the rental deposit. It is advisable to check with the specific car rental agency for their requirements and any additional documents or conditions.

Q: What is the best month to visit Salalah?

A: The best month to visit Salalah is typically during the khareef season, which occurs from June to September. This is when the region experiences its unique monsoon weather, with moderate temperatures, refreshing drizzles, and vibrant green landscapes. However, Salalah also offers pleasant weather and attractions throughout the year, so you can plan your visit based on your preferences.

Q: Is Salalah worth visiting?

A: Yes, Salalah is definitely worth visiting. With its captivating natural beauty, rich history, cultural heritage, and warm hospitality, Salalah offers a unique and memorable experience for travelers. Whether you are interested in exploring archaeological sites, relaxing on pristine beaches, or immersing yourself in local traditions and cuisine, Salalah has something to offer for everyone.

Q: Is Muscat better or Salalah?

A: Both Muscat and Salalah have their own distinct charm and attractions. Muscat, the capital city of Oman, offers a mix of modernity and traditional architecture, bustling souks, and historical landmarks. Salalah, on the other hand, captivates visitors with its natural beauty, picturesque landscapes, and the enchanting khareef season. The choice between the two depends on your preferences and the kind of experience you are seeking.

Q: Which is the coldest month in Salalah?

A: The coldest month in Salalah is typically January, where temperatures can drop to an average of around 20°C (68°F). However, it’s important to note that Salalah enjoys a relatively mild and pleasant climate throughout the year, with temperatures rarely reaching extremes.

Q: Why is Salalah famous?

A: Salalah is famous for several reasons. It is known for its unique khareef season, where the region experiences a monsoon-like weather pattern, resulting in lush greenery and pleasant temperatures. Salalah is also renowned for its historical sites, such as the ancient ruins of Al Baleed Archeological Park and the Museum of the Frankincense Land. Additionally, the city’s beautiful beaches, warm hospitality, and rich cultural heritage make it a popular tourist destination in Oman.

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Salalah, Oman Travel Guide: Everything You Need To Know

From waterfalls to stunning mountain views, Salalah in Oman is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Arabian Gulf and is ideal for adventure and nature lovers. It has a rich history, diverse culture, and a range of activities and experiences to enjoy during your visit. 

In this article, we will cover everything you need to know for a trip to Salalah, Oman, including:

• Best time to visit Salalah
• Top Salalah attractions
• Hidden gems in Salalah
• Bucket list experiences
• Travel tips for Salalah, Oman
• Oman eSIM: Stay connected with Airalo

Best Time to Visit Salalah, Oman

Khareef (July to September) is the best time to visit Salalah. At this time of year, the weather is pleasant (between 20-25°C), there's moderate rainfall, and the mountains are brimming with flowers and wildlife. It's an ideal time to discover Salalah's picturesque landscapes and experience unique local events.

However, this is also Salalah's busiest travel season. If you hope to beat the crowds and save on flights and accommodation, September to December is your best bet. 

Top Salalah Attractions

There are plenty of unique things to see and do in Salalah. Here are the top five attractions to add to your itinerary.

Photo credit: Shifabeg 

Wadi Darbat Reserve

Wadi Darbat is considered one of the most stunning attractions in Salalah. It's located about 40 kilometers north of the city and is known for its picturesque landscapes, beautiful waterfalls, and dense palm trees. During Khareef, monsoon waters flow from the mountains, creating jaw-dropping waterfalls (one reaches a height of 100 meters!). 

Boat and kayak in Darbat Lake or take off on foot to explore the lush green landscape. You can visit the valley's natural spring and hike to a network of caves that wind through the surrounding hills. Remember to charge your phone so you can capture incredible photos and memories!

The Ancient City of Samharam 

Samharam is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a castle, antiquities, and ancient stone buildings. In ancient times, it was a thriving port that linked trade routes between the Mediterranean and India. Today, it has a large collection of antiques, stone inscriptions, and coins dating back over 2,000 years. 

Frankincense Farms

The Salalah region is famous for its frankincense. You can visit frankincense farms to learn how it's grown and its economic and historical importance to the Sultanate. Frankincense is a natural product used in medicine, perfumes, body care, and incense (for which the Sultanate is famous) and is an integral part of Omani heritage. 

During ancient times, the Frankincense Road was an important trade route for caravans loaded with incense. Several sites on the Frankincense Road have been added to the UNESCO World Heritage list, including Al-Baleed Archaeological Park, Sumhuram Archaeological Park (Khor Rori) — one of the most famous frankincense export ports in the ancient world, the archaeological site of Ubar (Shisr), and Wadi Dawka Tree Reserve.

Mughsail Beach

Mughsail Beach is an absolute must for a trip to Salalah. This global tourist destination located west of Salalah is ranked among the best beaches in the world. It's known for its turquoise waters, pristine white sand, and spectacular cliffs.

The beach offers a range of activities and experiences, including fully-equipped stone bungalows where you can barbecue and enjoy the beautiful weather. It's a great place to sit back and relax before venturing around Salalah!

Photo credit: ismo

Al Marneef Cave and Blowholes

Are you an adventure-seeker? Head to Al Marneef Cave in the Al Mughsail Beach area. Nearby, you'll find three natural blowholes that spew water up to 28 meters high!

You can reach Al Marneef Cave by a wooden bridge that connects to the beach. Enjoy the cave's charming natural beauty and scenery around it. You can visit any time of day, but the best time to go is in the morning.

Hidden Gems in Salalah

If you prefer to venture off the beaten path, consider adding these hidden gems to your Salalah trip. 

Jabal Al-Qamar (Moon Mountain)

Jabal Al-Qamar (Moon Mountain) is one of Salalah's most beautiful areas. Stroll the landscape and take in stunning views of the Arabian Sea and Indian Ocean. During spring and fall, clouds hover close to the summit — if you want to touch the sky, this is your chance!

Al Fazayah Beach

If you plan on visiting Salalah in spring or summer, take a short trip to Fazayah Beach. During this time of year, the waves are calmer, and you can enjoy clear blue waters and golden sands.

Ain Razat is located about 30 kilometers east of Salalah and is considered one of the region's most beautiful springs. Enjoy the scenic landscape, including a pond with water lilies, and explore the public gardens, which are open year-round.

Taqah Castle

Take a journey back in time at Taqah Castle. This well-preserved castle dates back to the nineteenth century and is now a museum. Located atop a small hill, it has a beautiful view of the sea and surrounding mountains. 

Salalah Falls

Salalah is home to stunning waterfalls that are even more beautiful during Khareef. The most famous are the Ain Athum Falls, Khor Waterfall, and Ain Kour Waterfall. 

Bucket List Experiences in Salalah

There are plenty of bucket list experiences to try when you visit Salalah. Here are a few to check off your list:

• Go scuba diving and snorkeling.
• Visit the Salalah Museum to learn about the city's history and culture.
• Wander the famous fort market to buy antiques and souvenirs.
• Tour frankincense farms and visit the Museum of the Frankincense Land.
• Wander around Al Hosn Market, one of the most famous traditional markets in Salalah, where you can buy a range of local products such as perfumes, frankincense, and handicrafts.
• Watch the seagulls at Mughsail Beach.
• Take a tour of Jabal Samhan, famous for its mountainous terrain and fantastic biodiversity.

Travel Tips for Salalah, Oman

If this is your first time traveling to Salalah, remember these practical tips for your trip.

The Omani Rial is the currency used in Salalah and Oman in general. You can use credit cards in most places, but carrying some cash for convenience stores and brick-and-mortar shops is a good idea. ATMs can be found in most tourist areas and malls.

Plugs and Adaptors

Salalah and Oman generally use a Type G plug. The standard voltage is 240V, and the frequency is 50Hz. If you're visiting from a country with a different plug and voltage, you'll need an adaptor for your trip.

Getting Around

You can get around Salalah by local taxis and buses. There are also car rental services if you prefer to drive your own car. If you rent a car, it's a good idea to consider getting a four-wheel drive to navigate mountain roads and remote terrain.

Oman eSIM: Stay Connected with Airalo

Stay connected during your trip to Salalah with an  eSIM from Airalo . An eSIM is a tiny SIM that's embedded in your device and works 100% digitally. You can download an eSIM plan for your destination and instantly connect to a mobile network. There's no need to find a SIM card vendor, manage multiple SIMs, or worry about roaming fees. 

Here are just some of the benefits of using an Airalo eSIM:

• Connect to a mobile network within minutes.
• Choose from flexible  local, regional, and global data plans .
• Say goodbye to expensive roaming charges.
• Store multiple eSIM data plans on your device.
• Need more data? Top up in the Airalo app.

Are you planning a trip to Salalah, Oman?  Download an Oman eSIM  to stay connected during your travels!

Based in Dubai, Sana's love for storytelling and writing began at a young age. She writes about travel and tech for Airalo.

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Khareef in Salalah

• Post author By Ali
• Post date August 30, 2013
• 45 Comments on Khareef in Salalah

After a long (and early) summer hibernation period where we hardly went on any trips, we ended up deciding to take advantage of the generous Eid Al Fitr holidays and head up to Salalah to experience Khareef Salalah “خريف صلالة” and check out some of the many attractions in THE tourist hotspot of Oman (at this time of the year anyway!).

Salalah (صلالة) is the capital city of the governorate of Dhofar in the South of Oman, and the second largest city in the country. Salalah is one of probably only two places in the Arabic peninsula (besides Yemen) that experiences a monsoon season, which is called Khareef and lasts from July to September. Khareef means “autumn” in Arabic but it refers to monsoon when describing Salalah, and by the way the word monsoon in English is derived from the Arabic word maowsim “موسم” which means season. During this time, the brown landscape of Salalah and its surroundings is completely transformed to a beautiful and lush green, and locals and tourists alike flock to Salalah.

Not surprisingly, the city and surrounding areas get really busy at this time of the year, especially considering that the Salalah Tourism Festival starts at the same time; visitors may find it difficult or extremely expensive to get a room or even hire a car unless they booked well in advance, and our top tip is to always book  in advance and ensure you get your booking confirmed prior to your departure to avoid any nasty surprises!

Khareef is not the only thing Salalah is known for, Salalah is even more famous for its ancient frankincense trade, with the UNESCO including several ancient settlements (Al Balid, Sumharam, Shisr and Wadi Dawkah) in Dhofar in its World Heritage List , appropriately naming it the “Land of Frankincense”. Thousands of years later, Salalah is still well known for the quality and quantity of frankincense it produces!

Things to Do / Places to Visit:

We spent two nights in Salalah, and managed to visit the following places:

Souq Al Haffa سوق الحافة

This is the main market in Salalah and the place for buying traditional Omani items from clothing to gold and silver handicrafts, and of course a wide variety of frankincense! If you are here during the Salalah Tourism Festival you may also see a traditional Dhofari dancing performance.

Al Balid Archaeological Park /Land of Frankincense Museum منتزة البليد الأثري و متحف أرض اللبان

This is the location of the ruins of Al Balid (also spelled Al Baleed البليد), an ancient city known as a frankincense trading hub and visited by both Marco Polo and Ibn Batuta ابن بطوطة. The area has been developed with footpaths to the ruins and information throughout, making it a very pleasant and educational trip for all family members. khor (“خور a ravine in Arabic) also passes through the area adding to the charm. Entrance fee is 2 R.O per passenger car, this also includes the entrance fee to the Land of Frankincense Museum which is located on the park complex. The museum displays various artifacts discovered in Al Balid and Sumharam ruins, as well as a whole section covering Omani maritime history including beautiful models of Omani ships past and present. We found the displays and presentation at the museum to be one of the best we have seen in Oman so far, and we highly recommend it for anyone visiting Salalah!

Sultan Qaboos Mosque Salalah جامع السلطان قابوس في صلالة

A splendid mosque right in the heart of the city, and the largest in Salalah. It is has a single dome structure flanked by two minarets, with beautiful Arabic calligraphy inscriptions inside. The architecture of the mosque is very similar to Sultan Taimur Bin Faisal Mosque in Muscat. The mosque can be visited weekdays between 8 to 11 am.

Aqeel Mosque مسجد عقيل

Originally built in 1779, making it one of the oldest mosques in Salalah still in use today. The mosque has a very unique design inspired from Andalusian architecture, and is the only one of its kind in Oman.

Ittin Plain سهل أتين

A flat area close to the the city center, with lots of food “stalls” selling Dhofari food delicacies (yay for Camel mushkak – which are camel meat skewers) and popular with people wanting to camp and enjoy some fresh air. We did not get to explore the area further, but apparently there are beautiful viewpoints if you drive up the hills beyond the plain.

Al Mughsail Beach شاطئ المغسيل

About 40 kms from the city and one of the top attractions in Salalah. The beaches in Salalah and surrounding coastline are very rough and Mughsail is no exception, where it is unique is that the waves crash through naturally formed blowholes in the limestone formations and spurt up water plumes with a thundering noise up to several meters in the air! If you are brave enough you should take a picture right next to the water jet spurting through the blowholes (but you will most likely get completely wet :)). There is also a coffee shop in Mughsail beach along with viewing platforms with spectacular views of the beautiful and rugged coastline. Make sure you get here early before the crowds especially if you want to have good photo opportunities, we got there around 7 am and it was perfect!

Al Fazayeh Beach شاطئ الفزايح

An isolated beach about 30km west of Mughsail, with an absolutely amazing coastline. If you liked Mughsail but did not like how crowded it got, head out here for a more natural and (as of yet) non-exploited beach, the crystal clear water is amazing but be careful if you want to swim here as the current is very strong and the coast is rocky.

The drive to get here is quite spectacular by itself during khareef as it goes through the green mountains, but it is single lane and quite windy so be extra careful. If you continue further west towards the Yemeni border, you will be going through more beautiful scenery.

Sha’t شعت

This is one of the small areas you can stop by as you drive further West from Al Fazayeh beach. Unfortunately I forgot to locate it on the map during the visit, but allow about two hour drive from Al Mughsail to the the junction taking you to Sha’t. Exploring it further by taking the dirt road is highly recommended as you will be driving through spectacular views of the green hills (in Khareef only :)) and the Indian ocean! You can go further from here towards Dhalkoot ظلكوت which is meant to be just as amazing but we didn’t quite get a chance to go there.

Keep in mind that due to proximity to the Yemeni border, there might be military check points asking to check ID, so just have those handy.

Sumharam Archaeological Site / Khour Rori مدينة سمهرم الاثرية و خور روري

An impressive ruins of the ancient port city of Sumhuram which has been dated back to the 1st century AD. The city was an important frankincense trading hub in ancient times due to its strategic location. The site is a couple of kilometres from Taqah, which itself is about 40 kms from Salalah. A visitor fee of RO 2 per passenger car gets you access to the ruins of the fortified city, entrance to the museum and a chance to go close to Khour Rori where sea water mixes with sweet water from Wadi Dirbat at high tide.

Taqah Castle حصن طاقة

One of the few forts/castles in Dhofar, Taqah Castle was built in the 19th century as a residence for a local tribal leader. There is lots of information about the various rooms and exhibits in castle, and we quite enjoyed our visit here especially with a very informative castle officer who gave us a personal tour. A watch tower located on a hill behind the castle is part of the complex but was built at a much later date, and is not open for visitors. Taqah Castle is in Taqah and the entrance fee is RO 0.5 per person.

Wadi Dirbat وادي دربات

A beautiful natural park which is completely covered with lush green vegetation during khareef season. With a beautiful lake, occasional waterfalls and mountains obscured with fog, Wadi Dirbat offers a wonderful and enchanting experience that makes you wonder if you really are in Oman! There are lots of stalls in the wadi selling fresh fruits and mosquito repellent (which is a must!), and you can also get a boat to paddle in the lake! The turn to Wadi Dirbat is a couple of kilometers from Taqah, and a winding road takes you to the park.

Places To Stay in Salalah:

There are many accommodation options in Salalah ranging from 5 star hotels to furnished flats and apartments, but not many low budget accommodation options. You can find and book most of these hotels online, and  Oman Tourism website has information on many of these hotels. However, it is hard to find information online for available apartments so if that is where you want to stay you can either get an Arabic speaking friend to find the information through discussion forums , or try to get the Oman Tourism booklet which has a list of apartment complexes and their phone numbers. It is important to book accommodation in advance if you are coming to visit Salalah during the khareef seasons as Salalah becomes extremely packed with tourists.

As for camping, we did not really explore many options but the beaches further west from Mughsail is probably your best option, we would not even consider camping on the mountains due to the mosquitoes! Be warned that there are lots of stray camels in Salalah, and hyenas may occasionally be spotted!

Going to Salalah:

You can either fly or drive to Salalah. Oman Air operates several flights a day during khareef season. Unless you are going in a large car convoy or love driving 1,000+ km across the desert, flying is probably your best option!

There are many more places to visit in and around Salalah, which we could in no way cover over a 2 day trip, including almost half a dozen natural springs and other attractions. If you have a free time during the khareef season, you will surely not regret making a trip to Salalah…as long as you have mosquito repellent 🙂

45 replies on “Khareef in Salalah”

nice one! really informative indeed 🙂

not nice….y suks 🙂

Thanks Moign 🙂

I visited Oman the first time in July 2013 – during Ramadan. Stayed in Barka, at Al Nahda Resort & Spa. HIred a car (with chauffeur) for my 5 day stay to take me to Muscat, Nizwa, Sur, etc, but being Ramadan, there was virtually nothing open: no museums, no forts, not even many restaurants. So, I decided to stop over on my way back to Australia – late September ’13. I stayed at Al Nahda for 4 nights and again hired a car (4WD this time) and we drove into the mountains and stayed there overnight, as well as one night in Nizwa, then in a desert camp and later near the sea, just south of Sur to see the sea turtles. We also swam in wadis and trekked a lot. I virtually fell in love with Oman…. This year I’m going to Europe early June and again planning to stop in Oman, probably for 2 weeks. This time I’m going to fly to Salalah and stay there for a week, then fly back to Muscat and stay there for an other week. Thank you for above information! It helped me a lot with my plans. Anybody has any other suggestions to see and do, please share – I’d be grateful. Thank you. Judith Port Douglas (Australia)

I am very happy that you enjoyed your trip in Oman, and I hope you enjoy the upcoming trip even more and get to explore more places. Glad to hear our site is helpful in getting places to do. Stay tuned, as we are hoping to update with new some new posts coming up, and feel free to follow us on facebook/twitter/Instagram since we post pics of other places as we visit them 🙂

If you have any specific questions feel free to ask.

Cheers, Ali

I’m thinking about going to Salalah this weekend for a bit of a getaway. I’m travelling solo and wanted to know the best way to see all the sights you just mentioned. Is there a tour guide you would recommend? Also, what is it like during Ramadhan?

Thanks in advance!

I do not have contacts for tour guides in Salalah but being such a hot spot I am sure you can find something once you get there; however, it is pretty easy to see all these places we mentioned if you could just hire a car and drive around with a map 🙂

I would guess that Souq Al Hafa opening times will be different due to Ramadhan timing and likely to be closed until after Iftar time. You should also check about the two archaeological sites but I wouldn’t see how they won’t be open during the day.

I hope you have a wonderful weekend there (hopefully it won’t be too crowded on the roads!). Safe travels 🙂

We recently went to Salalah during Eid holidays and it was a fantastic experience. It looks like a different world altogether with all the greenery & constant drizzling..You can just head towards any direction and you will find some beautiful place to see & enjoy..Though quite expensive but a must visit place during Khareef season..As a first timer I could not cover all the places as I had to depend on a local guide..I am told that Ministry of Tourism publish some Brochures detailing the places to visit along with the directions, but I couldn’t find it anywhere in Salalah during my stay there..If anyone of you can share an e-copy of that Salalah brochure it would be very helpful to all of us…Thanks and regards

Good to hear you enjoyed your time there, it is definitely an amazing place to visit and a welcome change for anyone visiting from Muscat 🙂 I have seen such brochures in Salalah Garden Mall during my visit, but I do not have an e-copy of them unfortunately. There is a lot of work to be done by Ministry of Tourism there, and hopefully it will be easier to find information over the coming years. I hope to write more articles on more places of Salalah but first I need to have another visit 🙂

Hi, Went salalah two weeks back.. Visited many places listed above.. We drove from dubai to salalah.. Straight 16 hours drive.. But what an awesome place it was.. Hard to believe its OMAN.. The sad part are the mosquitoes over there.. Since we came back, I’ve got allergy.. I get some itchy red welts every night on my arms and face.. And I so hate these… Going to take some steroids now.. Anti allergies not working.. So, PLEASE BE SURE TO TAKE HIGH QUALITY MOSQUITO REPELLANT with you over there.. Thanks

thanks for your advise

Hi There how are you its nice to hear from you guys that got good time in salalah. Salalah is not khareef only so many activities can be done over here.

Can we still see the greeneries if we visit Salalah by second week of June? Thanks

That I am not sure of as I have never visited at that time. I understand that it changes every year and some years the season can get there quite late, so to avoid disappointment it is probably best to go a bit later in the season or check (somehow?) before going. I was told by some local friends that some areas remain green even until late September so that’s also another option (plus you get to avoid the huge crowds as the school season would have started by then).

Hope that helps, sorry if I couldn’t quite answer your question.

hi all thanks a lot to the admin of omantripper,I’ve plan to visit Oman on 18 july this year exactly after complete Ramadan. currently I’m a UAE resident so I plan my start journey from ruwais and straight a way to jabal shams resort,and early morning after I will leaving to ubar and continue to salalah for 5 days,any one who knows from nizwa to salalah if there is good tourist attractions location. currently I used you website as reference and I have “Oman off road” book and map by “explorer” as reference too.

That sounds like a great trip to have, and I am sure you will have a great time. To be honest I haven’t done the drive to Salalah personally myself, so I can’t tell of first hand experiences there. But it is a good idea to try and explore the area near Bidiyah, Wahiba sands and Wadi Bani Khalid. It might be a bit out of your way as well but you can also want to check out Mahout on the coast and even take a visit to Masirah island. From there onwards I can’t think of many places until you get to Salalah except perhaps Al Shuwaymiyah village 9http://wikimapia.org/17863682/Al-Shuwaymiyah).

Hope that helps 🙂 Ali

I am planning to salalah with family this eid 17th July 2015 any body going please notify

It is tomuch excellent and classical activities.people see and enjoy to visit these places.fare is a best enjoyment for kids and show dhofari classical dancing show.

Hi, thanks for the information. I am a UAE student and planning to go to Salalah with my friends via Bus. Could you let me know if I could hire a car on my UAE Drivers License or if not , then will we get a car for hire with a driver who could take us around the site seeing spots, and how much does it cost for a day?

I haven’t tried but I am sure you won’t have a problem hiring a car on a UAE driving license. You just need to make sure you have your ID card, license etc.. You can probably hire a driver with a car to show you around, but it will undoubtadly cost you more. When I was there last time, there was a bunch of guys in the airport who offered such services to tourists, but they weren’t real businesses so I can’t tell how the experience will be. Unfortunately, I wouldn’t know how much would that cost either! Hope that helps! Ali

Plan to go During Sept eid break, I have a Saloon Car, all the places you have mentioned in this page is it possible to visit by a saloon car?

Dear Valerian,

If am not mistaken almost all the places are accessible with a saloon car. Only part you may struggle a bit is the drive to Al Fazay’ beach from the road as it’s graded road but I did that in a small SUV once and it was fine.

Hope you have a great trip and a safe journry 🙂

Can we experience the greeneries in dec 1st week ?

We planned to go during the end of this year in Salalah, staying in a Hotel and renting a car to see all around. I have to inform myself a bit more about around but if i can already have some nice info from you would be really nice. I am really thinking to dont go in any “organise tour” and visit by myself it is possible ?

Do you know if it possible to do all this nice places you mention with a normal car and not a 4×4 ? or you would really recommend a 4×4 ? because there is a huge difference of the price. I guess that around this period is not as green but i am sure it is still worth it anyway 🙂 Do you know if there is at least one nice place to drink something the night and enjoy their nighlife there ? as local bar or others ? Have you been to the desert ? do you have any recommendations ?

Some much questions i could ask but if you could give the most useful informations that’s really kind.

Thank you very much and thanks for this nice blog 🙂

I am from Salalah, you may contact me via email [email protected] for tour guide.

my name is Salim,

Hi there!!! Does anybody have any direct contacts to wholesale sellers for frankincense? Thanks a lot 🙂

I may have a contact that can do that, get in touch with me on my email [email protected] 🙂

Some of our friends have told us that there is an annual festival even held in the city of Salalah during

Holy Ramadan in the month of June/July, 2016 which runs for the entire period of Ramadan until Eid Ul Fitra. I tried to search for details of this festival with an intention to participate from India but could not find any relevent

information. May be, i did not understand the correct name of the festival.

I therefore request you to get detailed information about this event.

The details of the organizers if Government or private.

The annual festival is Salalah Khareef festival. I can’t find any information online either, besides the Arabic version of the festival website here: http://salalahfestival.gov.om/ Maybe you can get some information by using google translate.

I am not sure whom you have to contact with regarding to your participation in this event, probably start with the Ministry of Tourism to get an idea.

Hope this helps.

I want to visit Salalah this year just before the beginning of Ramadaan. I wanted to stay in the mountains or somewhere green. No beachside resorts. Can you suggest something along these lines? Thanks.

Hi Alocin, Unfortunately, I haven’t been to Salalah often enough to know of any place besides beach side resorts. I haven’t heard of any hotels in the mountains though, sorry can’t be much of help. Best, Ali

Hi I will be visiting Salalah in July 2016 first week by road. Anybody wants t join.

My designation in the visa is “Systems Analyst” (an indian national currently working in UAE). Will i get visa on arrival at Salalah Airport?

Going to Salalah for the first time in a couple of days (6 July) During EID by flight.

I am planning on renting a car to discover nearby sites, waterfalls, etc..

Does anyone have updated saved points on google map or exact locations of interesting places? (It would be of real help)

Also, what are the top 3 places that are “MUST VISIT” spots in Salalah ?

Thank you all in advance for your help and suggestions

Im going to Salalah in August, is it nice, can I swim, how is the weather?

Thanks Laila

Yes, August will be a fantastic time to visit Salalah. This will be during the monsoon (khareef) season, so temperature will be quite cool with rainy clouds drifting and occasional rain, best time to visit Salalah 🙂 Swimming on the beaches is theoretically possible but be extra careful as the tide is really strong along the coast, so it can be quite dangerous especially with the many sharp rocks in the beach. I would avoid swimming in any wadis/lakes you see, as there are lots of mosquitoes/mosquito eggs.

Enjoy your trip to Salalah Ali

Hi Ali , You have a very informative blog thanks. Am planning a road trip to Salalah mid September 2016 to get away from the Dubai heat . Will it be green at that time? Also let me know if camping in tents is possible and is this allowed by the authorities. If anyone wants to drive as a group from Dubai to Salalah please get in touch.

I have been resident of Dubai for 23 years and work as a free lance tour guide , anyone reading this blog and intending to visit UAE could make use of my tailor made services by writing at [email protected] . Sorry Ali to use your blog to advertise my services

Hi We would like to have your advice to visit salalah in September Please reply urgently Thanks

What advice do you need? It is best to contact me by email: [email protected]

Asalamu alaykum my name is Hussein mohamed I am from U.S.A who is interested visiting Salalah Oman eventually insha Allah to learn the history of Oman thanks Hussein.

Hi Hussein,

Thanks for your comment, if you would like any help planning your trip feel free to drop me an email 🙂

maybe one more question.,,,,is it possible to rent/buy some camping gear in Muscat?

There aren’t many places renting camping gear but I’m sure you’ll find some if you look. However, I think it will be much easier and probably not much more expensive to just buy gear from some of the hypermarkets/supermarkets in Oman. Sultan Center in Qurum has a big selection so I suggest you try there, Lulue and Carrefour will them too.

Hi I am in salalah now and I want to camp in a tent next to a beach , is it allowed ? And any recommendations !! Plz advice thx:)

Sorry I missed your comment before. Yes you can camp by most beaches in Salalah! Al Fazaye beach should be a wonderful place to camp I think 🙂

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11 Sensational Places to Visit in Salalah This Year

When we talk about vacationing in the Middle East, you most likely think of deserts, mountains, sand, and a dry and hot climate.

Would you believe there is somewhere on the Arabian Peninsula where you can experience green mountains, lush waterfalls and natural phenomena?

This is exactly what you can expect and more in Salalah .

Salalah, Oman’s third-largest city, is located on the southern coast of Oman, facing the Indian Ocean. But what’s so different about this coastal desert region, you ask?

It is hot and humid during some months; however, it becomes a natural wonder in the monsoon season, also known as Khareef . It does not experience torrential rains, but light rain showers make the city a true tourist attraction!

With lush green mountains, waterfalls, light rain, and a mystical fog covering everything, visiting Salalah tourist spots is a unique experience.

Apart from this, Salalah in the Dhofar Governate has a fascinating history of trade, buildings with intricate architecture and beach resorts that are the epitome of luxury! It is the perfect place to visit for a summer escape from the United Arab Emirates and other Gulf countries.

So, if you’re planning a visit to the city of Salalah, we have put together 11 of the best places to visit during your trip to the south coast.

How do I get to Salalah?

1. sultan qaboos mosque, 2. waterfalls at wadi darbat, 3. al mughsail beach, 4. taqah castle, 5. land of frankincense, 6. the salalah festival, 7. jabal samhan, 8. al husn souq, 9. tawi atair sinkhole, 10. anti-gravity point, 11. atlantis of the sands – legendary lost city, how to see the best tourist places in salalah, more on salalah & oman.

As Salalah is the furthest city in Oman from Muscat, it is considered a remote location and is often overlooked by tourists. If you’re visiting from outside Oman, you can easily book a flight from Dubai, Jeddah , and other places direct to Salalah.

Salalah is located approximately 1000 km from Muscat by road; both public bus and self-drive are popular options if you’re setting out from Muscat.

If you want to save time or get to Salalah fast, you can get a flight from Muscat International Airport, but it would be a bit pricey, especially if you are travelling with family.

However, if you’re up for enjoying the beautiful landscapes along the coastal highway, going by your own car would be a better and cheaper option. You can view the amazing tourist sites, including the Tropic of Cancer, several beautiful mosques, beaches and gardens on your road trip to Salalah – we describe the best routes to take to Salalah here !

Your other alternative is to take the Muscat to Salalah bus. It will get you there in around 12.5 hours with just a couple of stops along the way, taking the slightly less scenic inland route.

With that sorted, let’s move on to the best places to visit in Salalah.

Top 11 Places to Visit in Salalah

For a perfect summer getaway and to experience a unique ecosystem, the best time to visit Salalah is during the Khareef season . However, you can visit any time of the year and still experience many of these majestic sites in Salalah.

Regardless of when you plan your trip, here are the top tourist spots in Salalah that you must check out!

Salalah Tourist Places Map

If you want to have a first-hand experience of modern and historical architecture, you should visit the Sultan Qaboos Mosque in Salalah. Located in City Centre, this monumental mosque is the largest mosque in the Dhofar Governorate.

As the mosque draws nearer, you can see the colossal white domes and minarets embellished with golden shapes. If this isn’t enough to leave you awestruck, step inside to be swept off your feet!

As soon as you enter the prayer hall, you’ll see plush green carpets, intricately designed wall patterns, and imperial chandeliers. A true example of classic Arabic architecture, the Sultan Qaboos Mosque is a tourist attraction you should not miss on your Salalah trip!

We weren’t kidding when we said you’d find waterfalls in the desert! But, to see this wonder of nature, you’ll have to visit Salalah in the Khareef season.

Wadi Darbat in Salalah is like heaven on earth: A lush green valley with a stream flowing from between the mountains! And depending on the amount of rain, you can witness waterfalls too from July till September.

This is the most visited place in Salalah and is packed with tourists, especially during Khareef. People can enjoy many activities here, like hiking, picnicking, boat riding, or just enjoying the beauty of this scenic place.

While you will find many beaches in Salalah, Al Mughsail Beach is slightly different from the rest and a great place to visit on a half-day trip.

It is a white sand beach with turquoise water as clear as crystal. But what makes this beach the most beautiful is the lush green mountains surrounding it. And that’s just one thing that adds to the beauty!

There are picnic shelters surrounded by Frankincense trees, where you can enjoy a quiet afternoon. Moreover, the rugged edges of this beach have blowholes that dramatically erupt with seawater every few minutes! It’s definitely one of the most interesting places to visit in Salalah.

So, a beach, a mountain, and a fountain, all in one place? Isn’t that a sight to behold? Undoubtedly this makes it one of the most remote yet beautiful beaches in the Middle East .

As we mentioned, Salalah is famous for its history and architecture, and the Taqah Castle is a true example of that!

Built in the 19th century, the Taqah Castle is located in the fishing village of Taqah, 33 km east of Salalah. It was once the residence of Sheikh Ali bin Taman Al Ma’shani, the great-great-grandfather of Sultan Qaboos.

It has been turned into a museum that houses several weapons, tools, and past items that give you an insight into the ancient Omani way of living. Apart from this, the astounding architecture of the castle shows us how skilled people were back in the day!

Another historical Salalah tourist attraction is the Land of Frankincense. It comprises four archaeological sites per UNESCO World Heritage Site, including Al Baleed Archaeological Park, Sumharam Old City, Ubar the Lost City, and Wadi Dawkah.

Al Baleed and Sumhuram are ancient seaports used to export Frankincense to Africa, China, India and Europe. Ubar was used for inland trading of Frankincense, and Wadi Dawkah is the place where Frankincense trees were planted.

Here you can see the archaeologists at work and visit the ruins to catch a glimpse of how things worked back then.

For more information about the Land of Frankincense, visit this website .

If you want to come out of the past and into the present, the Salalah Festival is the place to be! And just like you can witness the beautiful waterfalls in Khareef, the Salalah Festival also takes place during this season, from 15th July to 31st August, to be exact.

This festival is open for all and consists of lively music, scrumptious food, funfairs, theatre, and stalls selling clothes and other cultural items that you can buy as souvenirs. It is a fun and vibrant place to be, where you can enjoy the true essence of the Salalah monsoon season, making it one of the top activities in Salalah.

(It has been cancelled for the past few years due to COVID restrictions, we await to hear if the event will return for 2023)

Located around 50 km from Salalah, Jabal Samhan is the highest peak in Dhofar. From this point, you can view the thick clouds around the mountain. There’s a proper track with fences where you can stroll and view the scenery.

On days when there are no clouds, you can view the canyons and expanse of the ocean surrounding Salalah. It’s a very picturesque place, and you can take many memorable photos from the summit.

There are several food stalls here, too, so you can enjoy a snack or two while exploring this fantastic fairyland of a place! It is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Salalah during khareef, when the weather is playing nicely!

The Middle East is known for its famous Souq markets, and the Al Husn Souq is one of them. Therefore, if you’re looking for items you won’t find anywhere else, head over to the Al Husn Souq in Salalah (also known as Al Haffa Souq).

From traditional Omani clothes to decor items, perfumes, the famous Frankincense, and any other everyday item you can think of can be found at this open-air market. But, you’ll need to bargain a bit with the vendors to get the best price for everything.

One of the most interesting places to see in Salalah is the Tawi Atair Sinkhole (also known as the Well of Birds). It’s a 200-meter-deep and 60-meter-long sinkhole, which houses tons of birds in the many cracks, hollows, crevices, and holes in its walls; hence the name!

The Tawa Atair is one of the largest sinkholes in the world, and you can get there by car in approximately 30 minutes; however, we would recommend taking a guide with you. The sinkhole has a viewing area but is surrounded by thick shrubs and bushes; therefore, it is difficult to get a clear view.

We would not recommend crossing the vegetation to get near the hole, as it is quite steep and dangerous. However, several tour companies arrange to go inside the sinkhole with the help of a rope or via a muddy trek.

If you’re visiting Salalah, visiting this natural wonder is a must!

Now for something otherworldly!

If you want to witness one of the unexplained mysteries of science, travel on the route between Mirbat and Salalah. Here, you will find a stretch of desolate land where your car starts moving uphill at 35 km/h in neutral mode, surrounded by fog!

Many tourists get spooked out by the phenomenon and have named this area the anti-gravity point! You’ll find it on Google Maps as “Gravity Hill Salalah” -certainly a unique place to visit while exploring the magic of Salalah.

Last but not least, who can resist a local legend?

Ubar, or as it’s more commonly known by the name coined by T E Lawrence – Atlantis of the Sands – is believed to sit at the end of Rub’ Al Khail (the Empty Quarter).

Straddling a large portion of the Arabian Peninsula, from Saudi Arabia, across the UAE and Oman; whether you will discover the lost city of Ubar in Oman is another matter. Just like Atlantis – there’s much conjecture over where the ancient city lies, but the village known as Shisr in Dhofar Region seems to be a popular opinion with a sign-posted site to explore.

We’ll admit, there’s not an awful lot to see, but a day trip across the Qana Mountains to experience the desert dunes is one of the most breathtaking experiences to enjoy in Salalah. History buffs, however, will be totally in their element. Go with an experienced guide to fully appreciate the stories and legends that are held in the dunes.

Undoubtedly, having your own vehicle is the easiest way to get around the top Salalah attractions, as they are quite spread out. Most visitors fly into Salalah, though, so they will not have their own car.

Our top tip is to hire a car for a day and get to some of these further to reach nature and history spots. You do need to be confident, though, in tackling mountain roads.

You can find the best local car hire prices using DiscoverCars .

Alternatively, why not join a half-day or full-day tour? This way, your transfers will be included, plus you’ll get a knowledgeable guide to show you around.

Just choose the itinerary that suits your interests best; a guided tour may include the city highlights, or travel further to some of the unique beaches and mountains we’ve mentioned here:

Ready to Visit Salalah?

Salalah might be remote in location. However, it is home to many historical places and tourist spots. From ancient buildings to souq markets, historical sites, and scenic mountains, you will find a mix of desert and lush greenery almost unheard of elsewhere in the Arab world.

So, pack your bags, get those hiking boots ready, and start your journey to all these essential Salalah tourist places!

If you’re planning a trip to Oman, you may also be interested in:

• The most beautiful family resorts in Salalah
• Picking the best times to visit Oman
• Take a breathtaking tour of the Musandam Peninsula
• Family-friendly highlights of Oman
• Best of Muscat with Kids
• What to wear in Oman; dress code advice for all the family

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Brilliant & beautiful: the best beaches in oman, what to wear in oman; oman dresscode …, 10 beautiful & practical family-friendly hotels & resorts in muscat, 5 exciting things to do in muscat, oman ….

• 1.2 Climate
• 2.1 By plane
• 2.4 By boat
• 3.1 On foot
• 3.2 By taxi
• 5.2 Horseback riding
• 7.1 Grocery stores
• 8.2 Mid-range
• 8.3 Splurge
• 10.1 Budget
• 10.2 Mid-range
• 10.3 Splurge
• 12 Stay safe

Salalah is the capital city of Oman 's southern Dhofar region. It is the second largest city in the Sultanate, and has the distinction of being the Sultan Qaboos' birthplace. For most visitors, Salalah is the gateway to Oman’s most southerly governate of Dhofar – a historically independent, and culturally and ecologically unique region.

Understand [ edit ]

As the traditional regional capital, the city’s history stretches back two millennia, when, thanks to its strategic location, it was an important stop on the frankincense and silk trading routes. In the 19th century the region was incorporated into the Sultanate of Muscat and Oman, and Salalah served as the country’s capital from 1932 until the accession of Sultan Qaboos in 1970, who relocated the capital to Muscat. Salalah was the Sultan’s birthplace in 1940, and his mother was a member of a prominent regional Jebbali tribe; to this day the Sultan maintains close ties to the city.

Today Salalah is still known for the cultivation and trade of frankincense (albeit now on a smaller scale), and is famous for its summer khareef (monsoon) and annual Salalah Festival , when visitors flock to the region to escape the blazing hot temperatures elsewhere on the Arabian peninsula. As lodging and eating establishments outside the city are scarce, it serves as a useful and interesting base for travellers wanting to explore the wider area at any time of year.

Read [ edit ]

• Maria Dekeersmaeker , The DNA of Salalah, Dhofar: A Tourist Guide . Written by a Belgian journalist based in Salalah, this unusual book is a treasure trove of facts and history, organized thematically.

Climate [ edit ]

Most visitors come to Salalah during July and August to enjoy the annual khareef, when the nearby wadis are full of water. Occasionally streets flood, and ocean currents are too strong for swimming or diving. The crowds leave in September along with the rains, but the vegetation is still green, and hotel prices have started to come down.

Diving is only possible during the dry season, from October to the end of May, and this is also the optimal time for bird watching. May and especially June are the hottest months of the year, with humidity steadily increasing until the rains bring relief again in late June or early July.

Get in [ edit ]

By plane [ edit ]

• Oman Air . Flies from Muscat to Salalah at least three times a day, with a flight time of 1hr 30min. Operates direct international flights from Dubai W-Sa, with a flight time of some two hours, as well as to Jeddah Th and Sa, with a flight time of 2hr 50min.  
• Air Arabia . Flies from Sharjah on Su M W Th, with a flight time 1hr 45min.  
• Qatar Airways . Operates direct flights from Doha 3 times daily, with a flight time of 2hr 10min.  

Beware, the taxi from the airport is 10 or 20 times the normal taxi rate.

By car [ edit ]

Driving to Salalah from Muscat takes roughly 12 hours, and can either be an amazing and memorable experience, or a very uncomfortable one depending on what kind of traveller you are. The first 5 hours are very scenic, as you pass Rusayl, Nizwa and other small towns. However, it's barren desert and oil fields for most of the remainder of the trip, with the only larger settlements along this stretch being Haima and Thumrait just one hour before Salalah.

Travelling at night is usually better than driving in the heat of day (arriving in Salalah at night is a must, as the city lights from the high-altitude entry point are gorgeous). Watch out for renegade dunes on the way. There are several stops along the way for food, drinks, a cigarette break, or nature calls – you should take every opportunity to stop, as there might not be another one for many more kilometres. As of 2019, many petrol stations do not accept credit cards, so you should have cash with you. Lodging on the road is not good; plan your trip so you do not have to sleep on the road.

By bus [ edit ]

• 17.018874 54.098415 1 ONTC Bus Station ( next to the New Souq / Central Market ), ☏ +968 23 292773 , fax : +968 23 202721 , [email protected] . Oman National Transport Company runs buses to/from the Ruwi station in Muscat three times daily, with the trip lasting 12 hours. RO 6 (one-way), RO 11 (return) .  

Bus transport to/from Muscat is also offered, both with identical fares, by:

• Malatan Trading , As Salam St , ☏ +968 23 211299 .  
• Bin Qasim Transport , ☏ +968 23 291786 .  

By boat [ edit ]

There is at least one operator in Muscat that will charter you to Salalah.

Cruise ships stop regularly at the commercial 16.9467 54.0035 2 Salalah Port , west of the city. Shuttle buses transport visitors from the ship to the port entrance, and taxis are also available. Visitors need to bring only their cruise boarding pass and their Tourist Entry Permit.

Get around [ edit ]

On foot [ edit ].

It is possible to explore parts of Salalah on foot, as most places of interest are close to each other. During warmer times of year, though, walking may not be the best idea.

By taxi [ edit ]

The usual unmetered Omani taxis operate here. Negotiate the price before getting in. In 2021, a ride within the city was 1 rial. Most of the time, regular taxis were cheaper than the ride-hailing app Otaxi, but the app can be used to estimate a price.

If you hire a car, 2WD cars are adequate for most sights within Salalah itself. Outside of Salalah, however, many places of tourist interest lie off road, and SUVs are recommended particularly during the khareef season because of slippery terrain. Book your car well in advance if you plan to visit during this peak period, as rental agencies often run out of vehicles.

See [ edit ]

The old city is confined to the area called Al Haffa (Hafah), on the seafront.

• 17.006929 54.132433 1 Al Baleed Archeological Park , As Sultan Qaboos St , ☏ +968 23 303577 , [email protected] . Sa-W 9AM-2PM, 4PM-8PM; Th-F 4PM-8PM . A UNESCO World Heritage Site , these extensive ruins were once the 12th-century trading port of Zafar, visited by Marco Polo in 1285. RO 2 (only accepts credit card, includes admission to the Frankincense Museum) .  
• 17.009433 54.136085 2 Museum of Frankincense Land , As Sultan Qaboos St ( on the grounds of the Al Baleed Archeological Park ), ☏ +968 23 303577 . Sa-W 8AM-2PM, 4PM-8PM; Th-F 4PM-8PM . This excellent museum has displays on the history of the port and of the region. Admission included with Al Baleed entrance fee .  
• 17.022544 54.086593 3 Salalah Museum ( in the Salalah Cultural Center ). Sa-W 8AM-2PM . This museum houses an eclectic collection, with sections devoted to regional geology and history. There is also a permanent display of Wilfred Thesiger's photographs. Free .  
• 17.025098 54.111784 4 Burj an-Nadha ( Burj al-Nadha, Clocktower ). The clocktower may not be a sky-scraper but it is indeed the icon of Salalah, featured in the coat of arms of Dhofar Governate. The tower looks stunning during nights due to the colorful light display.  
• 17.021682 54.111376 5 Tomb of Nabi Umran ( Tomb of Nabi Imran ), Al Matar St ( next to Lulu Hypermarket ). Umran (Imran) was a local Arab prophet, believed by some to have been the father of the Virgin Mary, and believed by others to have been the father of Moses. The sarcophagus is 33 m long. Visitors should remove their shoes before entering, and women should cover their heads with a scarf. Free, tips gratefully accepted .  
• 17.017219 54.093803 6 Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque , 23 July St and An Nahdah St . Sa-Th 8AM-11AM (for non-Muslims) . Completed in 2009, this mosque can accommodate 14,000 people. Conservative dress required; women must have their ankles, wrists and hair covered.  
• 16.999768 54.099334 7 Sultan Qaboos Palace , Al Bahri St . Sultan Qaboos was born in a fortress at this location, which is now the grounds for a modern palace. It is not open to the public, but tourists may photograph it from the outside.  
• 17.001697 54.114204 8 Traditional Dhofari houses , Al Bahri St ( along the coast ). To see some older Yemeni-style architecture, drive east on Al Bahri Street along the beach.  
• 17.018581 54.119352 9 Footprint of Prophet Saleh's Camel , A Daqah St . A shrine housing the footprint of an enormous camel in the bedrock. According to the Quran, the camel was said to have appeared from nearby mountains as a miracle, yet was killed three days later by unbelievers who refused to recognize the Prophet Saleh. In punishment a severe earthquake was said to have destroyed the entire city and its inhabitants. As in other religious sites, visitors are requested to remove their shoes and women should cover their hair. Free .  
• 17.003 54.101833 10 Gun Souq , As Sultan Qaboos St . A small informal open-air market for vendors selling all types of weapons, from antique rifles to traditional knives and daggers. Best in the early morning.  

Do [ edit ]

• Salalah Tourism Festival ( Salalah Festival / Khareef Festival ). Jul-Aug . Held annually during the khareef period, this festival celebrates Dhofari culture and traditions with food, music, and entertainment.  
• 16.999912 54.067233 1 Khawr Salalah ( As Sultan Qaboos St and Al Khawr St ). Nov-Apr . Avid birdwatchers can find many species of birds within the city itself, as this lagoon is noted for attracting flamingos, ospreys, and many migratory birds. Bring your binoculars. Free .  

Diving [ edit ]

• Extra Divers Salalah ( in the Crowne Plaza Resort ), ☏ +968 92 873560 , [email protected] . 4PM-6PM . Organizes guided tours for diving and snorkeling, and conducts a full range of PADI courses. Most of their dives take place outside of Mirbat , where they also have a dive centre. The centre is closed during the khareef from the end of May until 1 October.  
• SubAqua Dive Center ( in the Hilton Hotel ), ☏ +968 9989 4031 , +968 9989 4032 , [email protected] . Offers full dive packages in the waters by Salalah as well as by Mirbat. Offers PADI courses.  

Horseback riding [ edit ]

• Dhofar Waves Equestrian Club , Awqad St , ☏ +968 926 579 78 , [email protected] . Offers beach and sunset rides. It is a little bit difficult to find, so use Google Maps or let them pick you up. ( updated Feb 2017 )

Talk [ edit ]

Most residents speak some English, but if you know a bit of Arabic and Malayalam then conversation will be much easier.

Buy [ edit ]

Frankincense is the souvenir purchase in Salalah, and only visitors who avoid shopping will not be offered some. Frankincense is available in several different grades differentiated by colour, the lightest considered to be the highest quality and the costliest. Hand-crafted incense burners made of local Dhofari clay are also good purchases. Myrrh is relatively easy to find as well, as are the myriad Omani perfumes on offer throughout the country. You can also buy a khanjar, the traditional Omani dagger.

• 17.023047 54.093567 1 Handicraft Souq , Tatawur St and Al Marqaz At Tijari St ( near KFC ). Sa-Th 9AM-1PM, 4PM-10PM; F 4PM-10PM . A good place to pick up traditional hand-crafted items.  
• 17.018471 54.099446 3 New Souq , 23 July St .  
• 17.024037 54.11215 4 Family Book Shop , Al Matar St ( in Assafa House ). Has books in English and Arabic, and a good selection of maps.  
• 17.013167 54.094757 5 Goal Sports , As Salam St ( opposite HSBC Bank ), ☏ +968 23 296624 . Has outdoor sporting goods, including camping supplies.  

Grocery stores [ edit ]

• 17.012275 54.074952 6 Al Isteqrar Hypermarket , Al Fayha St . Groceries are on the ground floor, and a food court upstairs.  
• 17.020113 54.111227 7 Lulu Hypermarket , Ar Rubat St and An Nama St , ☏ +968 23 218400 . Sa-Th 9AM-11PM; F 9AM-11PM, 4:30PM-11PM . A branch of the UAE chain. Good for picnic supplies or camping gear. ( updated Jul 2016 )
• 17.017322 54.061723 8 Lulu Supermarket , 23 July St and Al Matar St , ☏ +968 23 288133 . Sa-Th 8AM-11:45PM; F 8AM-11AM, 4:30PM-11:45PM . More centrally located than Lulu Hypermarket (see listing above), but with a much smaller deli and no camping gear. ( updated Jul 2016 )
• 17.026001 54.091636 9 Spinney's , An Nahdah St ( by the An Nahdah Roundabout ). Small supermarket with international food.  

Eat [ edit ]

If you decide to visit places outside Salalah city (good advice for traveling anywhere in Oman), remember to carry some food packed for emergencies (fruits, fruit juices, sandwiches recommended) as there are few restaurants outside the city. Always carry several bottles of drinking water since you may not find any store on the highways. There is, however, a delightful ocean-side cafe on the way to Mughsayl and the tidal geyser there.

Budget [ edit ]

• Al Kutaini Restaurant , 23 July St , ☏ +968 23 294179 . Offers a wide range of continental dishes but specialize in Pakistani cuisine.  
• 17.015301 54.090231 1 Annapoorna Restaurant ( Al-Saf Saf ), Al Ferdows St ( off of 23 July St ). A traditional South Indian Restaurant serving only vegetarian food.  
• 17.009176 54.072538 2 Bin Ateeq , 23 July St ( New Salalah ), ☏ +968 23 292384 , [email protected] . Daily 9AM-1AM . Part of a small chain of Omani restaurants, and a good place for Omani food. ( updated Aug 2018 )
• 17.018276 54.102526 3 Bin Ateeq , 23 July St ( Middle Salalah ), [email protected] . Daily 9AM-1AM . A second branch of the popular Omani restaurant. ( updated Aug 2018 )
• 17.016953 54.096845 4 Cascade Tandoori Restaurant , 23 July St ( near Bank Dhofar ), ☏ +968 23 288233 . Daily 11AM-3:30PM, 6:30PM-12:30AM . Offers a large range of Indian dishes, particularly well-known for their vindaloo.  
• 17.015619 54.094265 5 Chinese Cascade , 23 July St , ☏ +968 23 289844 . Chinese restaurant offering decent food. No buffet.  
• Chopsticks , 23 July St , ☏ +968 24 783384 . Indian-styled Chinese restaurant with decent food. No buffet.  
• 17.016527 54.098229 6 Hassan Bin Thabit Restaurant , 23 July St , ☏ +968 23 291010 , [email protected] . Daily 8AM-1AM . Serves Arabic, Chinese, European and Indian cuisines. ( updated Aug 2018 )
• 17.023611 54.093182 7 KFC , Ar Rubat St . American fried chicken, sit-down restaurant and drive-through.  
• 17.00427 54.0411 8 Khareef Salalah Restaurant , Bldg No 54 ( near Al Awqadayn Roundabout ), ☏ +968 2321 0030 , [email protected] . Daily 11AM-1AM . A unit of Hassan Bin Thabit Kitchens, with a varied international menu. ( updated Aug 2018 )
• 17.011 54.0885 9 Pizza Hut , As Salam St . Always an option for any Americans wanting a taste of home, delivery available.  

Mid-range [ edit ]

• 17.018204 54.102116 10 Baalbeck Lebanese Restaurant , 23 July St ( near the main market ), ☏ +968 23 298834 . A small family restaurant serving very good Lebanese food. Has excellent hummus, tum and shwarmas.  
• 17.005303 54.060783 11 Lebanese House Restaurant , Al Salaam St ( Bait Lubnan ), ☏ +968 23 212100 . This restaurant offers good Lebanese food at a reasonable price (RO 10 for 3 people - starter & main incl. 1 drink each). Delivery available.  
• 16.930007 53.997468 12 Oasis Club , Port Rd ( Raysut ), ☏ +968 23 219248 . Sa-W noon-3PM, 6PM-11PM; Th-F noon-12:30AM . Offers a wide selection of international cuisine at a very reasonable price (a fraction of the cost of the hotel restaurants and better quality). This restaurant is also fully licensed. Take away and delivery available. ( updated Jul 2016 )
• Al Ajwa , 23 July St ( near Bank Dhofar ). Offers Pakistani and Hyderbadi food. No buffet.  

Splurge [ edit ]

The restaurants in the Hilton , Crowne Plaza , and Juweira Boutique hotels offer high-end dining services, with both à la carte and buffet options. For romantic dining, beach pavilions can be reserved at both the Hilton and Juweira Boutique.

Drink [ edit ]

Alcohol for non-Muslim visitors is available at high end hotels like Oasis Club near the port, as well as at the bars in the Crowne Plaza, Hilton, and Juweira Boutique hotels.

For a refreshing drink, stop at any of the many roadside vendors selling fresh coconut. They will lop the top off a green coconut for you for 200-300 baizas.

Sleep [ edit ]

During the annual khareef from July-September the population of Salalah balloons with visitors from elsewhere in Oman and the Persian Gulf, so if you plan to visit during this time it is essential to make reservations well in advance. During other times of year rooms are plentiful and rates are more reasonable.

• 17.019656 54.11017 1 Al Hanaa Hotel , 23 July St ( across from Lulu Hypermarket ), ☏ +968 23 298305 , +968 23 290274 , [email protected] . Within walking distance of downtown.  
• 17.00905 54.15872 2 Arabian Sea Villas , Dahariz Beach ( near the Crown Plaza Resort ), ☏ +968 23 235833 , fax : +968 23 235830 , [email protected] . An Omani-Belgian enterprise, adjacent to the coconut groves. This is one of the best budget options in Salalah; rates include breakfast and wifi (available in the breakfast/coffee room). RO 30-40/night . ( updated Aug 2019 )
• 17.01725 54.110095 3 Dhofar Hotel , Al Matar St ( near Lulu Hypermarket ), ☏ +968 23 292300 , fax : +968 23 294358 , [email protected] . The hotel offers basic accommodation at very affordable prices. Service is very friendly and hotel is reasonably clean. €80/double .  
• 17.02397 54.112009 4 Haffah House , Al Matar and Ar Robat Sts , ☏ +968 2329 5444 , [email protected] . Old rooms, basic but decent. Very close to the airport and in the centre of the city so it's easy to reach any place you want to get to, reasonable swimming pool, gym and tennis courts. Banking and rent a car services are available in the same building. ( updated Oct 2017 )
• 17.018871 54.059683 5 Hamdan Plaza Hotel , Al Wadi St ( across from Lulu Hypermarket ), ☏ +968 23 211025 . Free breakfast with wi-fi.  
• 17.008817 54.151286 6 Crowne Plaza Resort Salalah , Dahreej , ☏ +968 23 235333 . Check-in: 2PM , check-out: noon . A better alternative for luxury accommodation as the property is much larger than the Hilton and more importantly it is close to the city centre. RO 72+/night .  
• 16.981361 54.015384 7 Hilton Salalah , As Sultan Qaboos St , ☏ +968 23 211234 , fax : +968 23 210084 . Check-in: 2PM , check-out: noon . A popular choice for European visitors. It is roughly 12 km outside the city and runs a daily shuttle service to and from the Gold Souq. However, the hotel cannot really be recommended as the service is appalling and a general sense of "the inmates running the asylum" pervades. RO 59+/night .  
• 17.031464 54.299717 8 Juweira Boutique Hotel , Taqa Rd ( Marina Town ), ☏ +968 23 239600 , fax : +968 23 239622 . From Juweira you can get a clear view of the artificial 'Juweira Island' which is spectacularly illuminated during night. There are many wonderful cafes, lounges and restaurants in Juweira. There is also a fashion boutique and a children's play area. RO 65+/night .  
• 17.008142 54.143869 9 Al Baleed Resort Salalah by Anantara , Al Mansurah Street ( Al Baleed ), ☏ +968 2322 8222 , [email protected] . A beach resort providing a myriad of activities including tennis, volleyball, and badminton courts, petanque, and beach football. Doubles OR 132+ . ( updated Jan 2017 )

Connect [ edit ]

Mobile coverage using Oman's providers is close to flawless, but roaming can sometimes be slow. There are several internet cafes around town, but speeds are inconsistent. Prices vary, but are usually cheap. You can also buy a tourist SIM card from any of the two main phone companies.

Stay safe [ edit ]

Salalah is a very safe place. However, the Salalah (Arab) way of driving might need some getting used to for non-Arabs.

Don't go swimming in the sea or permit toddlers/children to wander off at beaches. The sea has very strong ocean currents and the seabed has a steep drop off, making it very unsafe for swimmers, experienced or beginner.

Cope [ edit ]

• Remember to carry your passport and visa papers with you wherever you go, at least photocopies, as you can expect local police or military patrols to check on you when you least expect them to show up, even if you are within city limits (a routine procedure to check for illegal workers and immigrants).
• It's advisable for women to bring conservative clothing, especially if travelling outside the city. A general rule is to keep shoulders and knees covered. Western swimwear is acceptable on private hotel beaches, but not on public beaches where one-piece suits, or even t-shirts and swimming shorts, are preferable. Keep a sarong handy.
• Bring plenty of water and sunblock if travelling outside the city.

Go next [ edit ]

North [ edit ]

East [ edit ].

Taqah coastal city is 35km away on Highway 49, and Mirbat also on the coast is an hour's drive.

West [ edit ]

To the west is Mughsayl with its famous blowholes, and some dramatic coastline (see Itineraries in Dhofar ).

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The best things to do in and around Salalah

By Anna Zacharias

For a few months each year, Salalah is swaddled in thick white clouds and wispy mists cling to dark forests and limestone cliffs. This has made the capital of Oman ’s southern Dhofar region a destination for rain tourism, which, in the Middle East, is quite the novelty. The khareef, as the monsoon is locally known, lasts from June to September and has long drawn rain tourists from across the Arabian Peninsula. But this city of swaying coconut palms and banana fronds holds charms even when the land reverts to its muted greens and browns, and there are plenty of things to do in Salalah. Notably, its white beaches become safe for swimming at the monsoon’s end.

Salalah has shed its small-town vibe. Today, it is a city of about 450,000 residents, with multi-lane motorways, luxury hotels and a revamped airport that opened in 2015. If you are already in the Arabian Peninsula, the best (and most carbon-friendly) way to appreciate Dhofar is by driving there , either through the gravel plains of Oman’s interior down Motorway 31 or, if you have a few days, along the spectacular south coast roads from Sur.

Here are some of the best things to do in Salalah.

Haffa Souk, the biggest frankincense marketplace in Oman

Shop at Haffa Souk

Frankincense was once traded ounce for ounce with gold and Dhofar’s Boswellia trees produced the best in the world. Today, you can buy the aromatic resin for just a few riyals at Al Haffa Souk . The market, also known as Al Hosn or Al Husn Souk, sits beside Al Hosn Palace, a beach and coconut groves. Al Haffa souk is Salalah’s oldest and most fragrant. Deep tubs hold frankincense in hues of pale yellow, green and silver. These translucent granules are said to heal the gut, revive libido, ward off jinn and cure a raft of other dilemmas. When the Moroccan explorer Ibn Battuta arrived in Dhofar in 1329, he remarked on the many women who owned and ran market stalls and this remains so. Many make their own bukhoor, or perfumed briquettes, and sell handmade clay burners. The souk has the usual smattering of souvenirs and textile shops. For women, it’s a good place to get a cotton thobe in psychedelia colours and useful if you want conservative but cool beachwear. Also handy for an Omani road trip : miniature, plug-in frankincense burners for your car. (You never know when you might, say, forget half a falafel sandwich in there during a cross-country trip. Trust me.) The souk is closed on Friday mornings and open until late at night.

Remains in the ancient site of Samharam

Wander the ancient city of Samharam

A Hadhrami king claimed to have founded the port city of Samharam (or Sumhuram) in the first century but the settlement had already been around for 200 years and was renowned for frankincense and myrrh in ancient Egypt , Greece and Mesopotamia. The city thrived for 800 years and was eventually abandoned from the fifth century AD, probably when Khor Rori harbour silted up. The archaeological site is 40-minutes east of Salalah. Visitors can amble through the remains of storehouses, multi-story homes and a temple to the moon god Sin, visit the adjacent museum and admire dusky camels bath languidly in the Khor Rori lagoon. Samharam is part of a UNESCO World Heritage listing recognising the Land of Frankincense, along with the Boswellia trees of Wadi Dawkah, the caravan oasis of Shishr and the ruins of the medieval town of Al Baleed in Salalah.

Wadi Darbat's network of waterfalls is a piece of monsoon magic

Chase waterfalls in Wadi Darbat

Dhofar is the place to chase waterfalls. These are not the rivers and the lakes that you’re used to but pieces of fleeting monsoon magic: aquamarine pools and waterfalls crashing off mountains. The best known, like Ain Athum and Ain Garziz, have sturdy paths, handrails and roadside stalls during the festive atmosphere of the khareef. Most loved is Wadi Darbat, where low waterfalls cascade into turquoise pools during the khareef. But the wadi is popular all year. Driving further into the wadi and past its vine-snarled trees, you’ll reach a pool where small boat rides are offered. These waters flow to the Samharam estuary and into the Arabian Sea.

The smooth mud walls of Taqah Fort

Visit the wali’s majlis at Taqah Fort

The 19th-century mud-walled fort is a newcomer compared to other forts and castles in Oman. Its wall and towers were added in the 1960s and it was renovated before opening as a museum in 1994. Nonetheless, Taqah has some beautiful examples of traditional Dhofari architecture and the fort is a charming museum. It served as the office of the local wali until the 1970s and you can sit in the governor’s old majlis, decorated with bright cushions and vintage peacock paintings, and imagine him hearing the grievances of the day. The fishing village of Taqah, just west of Khor Rori, was once famed for its myrrh. For Omanis, Taqah is perhaps best known as the resting place of Sultan Qaboos’ Dhofari mother, Mazoon Al Ma’ashani. She is buried in the graveyard beside the castle.

Scenic views from vertiginous Jebel Samhan

Touch the sky at Jebel Samhan

Rising to 2,100 metres, Jebel Samhan is the highest point in Dhofar, with spectacular vistas from above the cloudline. But when to go is a matter of perspective. Foreign visitors typically want clear days for panoramas of shrub-dotted valleys falling into the cobalt blue ocean. If you’re from the Arabian Peninsula, you probably prefer to grab a cup of spiced milk tea, or karak, from a food truck and enjoy the changing cloudscape. There is a paved and railed walkway to the lookout, a 50-minute drive, north-east of Taqah. Intrepid travellers can book hiking trips from local guides. The Jebel Samhan nature reserve is the last holdout of the elusive Arabian leopard and home to a motley crew of mammals: the Indian-crested porcupine, the striped hyena, the honey badger and the rock hyrax, a singing rodent-like creature whose unlikely closest living relatives is the elephant.

Easier to spot (and more stationary) are the mountain’s incredible flora: wiry frankincense trees, swollen desert rose trees and Arabian dragon trees with spiky mohawk tops. Dhofar’s vegetation is closely related to species in north-east Africa, from a time when this land was part of the continent.  Dhofar and eastern Yemen have at least 39 species of plants found nowhere else on earth and Jebel Samhan is a chance to see it all up close.

Tawi Attair sinkhole (sometimes known as Taiq cave) is one of the largest sinkholes in the world

Defy gravity at Tawi Attair

Peer into the depths of this vine-drenched sinkhole and you won’t see the ground, only the birds as they flit in, out and across the rift. ‘The Well of the Birds’ spans 100 metres across and plummets down 210 metres, more than twice the height of Big Ben in London. Or, you can stop at ‘The Location of Gravity’, which is, in fact, the opposite of what the signpost says. It’s 27 km south-west from Taqa on the road to Mirbat. Put your car in neutral at this ‘anti-gravity point’ and it will appear to mysteriously drive itself uphill. It’s an optical illusion. But feels like magic indeed.

The tomb and mosque of the Prophet Ayyub, also known as Job

Visit Job’s Tomb

Good-hearted Job was so devout that his faith never wavered when he lost wealth, health and family. He is known in Arabic as the Prophet Ayyub and his tomb is found in a small and peaceful compound on the plateau of Jebel Qara, 30 km north-west of Salalah. The mausoleum is a simple green and white room, perfumed by plumes of frankincense and lit by a chandelier. A decorative cloth covers the long tomb. The compound is not old but has the remains of a far older mosque. Drive to Job’s tomb past luminous green fields grazed by cows, goats and camels. The turnoff is 14 km after Ain Jarziz. Job’s tomb is not Salalah’s only holy site. Downtown, you can see the petrified footprints of the Prophet Saleh’s camel and, a ten minute walk away on Airport Road, the tomb of Prophet Imran.

Camel meat is a popular dish in the roadside stalls across Dhofar

Dine like a Dhofari

Camel meat sizzled on wadi rocks, served with spiced rice and fresh limes — for carnivores, this is Dhofari cooking at its best. Meat eaters can visit the roadside restaurants across from Atin (or Ittin) Park offering all manner of Dhofari-style grills, fresh juices and the regular selection of cold mezze dishes. Atin Street rises up a mountain towards Job’s tomb, with many places to stop en route for a picnic with good friends and hot tea. Fresh seafood, considered best when the khareef whips up nutrient-rich waters, is not to be missed. Liyali Hadhramout, near the Haffa Souk, has long communal tables and serves charred fish and other Yemeni dishes. For vegetarians, there are excellent Indian restaurants and cafeterias around Salalah. Udupi Restaurant, across from the Sultan Qaboos Mosque on 23rd July Street, offers fare from north and south Indian, including a perfect masala dosa. Just down the road from Udupi is Al Tannour Lebanese Restaurant, a good breakfast spot with covered outdoor seating. Try the foul, shashouka, or cheese and honey ma’anesh with fresh minty tea for a powerful start to the day.

Mughsail beach boasts six kilometres of white sand, complete with picnic shelters and frankincense trees

Get blown away by Mughsail Beach

Six kilometres of powder-soft sand, frothy waves and cratered cliffs make Mughsail the must-visit beach east of Salalah. Dramatic white mountains drop to the water’s edge and during summer, you can walk out under a limestone overhang to get a blast of salt water from Mughsail’s famous blowholes as waves pound its porous rocks. Mughshail is 45-minutes west of Salalah and crowded in summer. In winter, the waters calm, the tourists disappear and the beach is ideal for swimming, bodyboarding and picnics. During the khareef, stop at Eftalqot meadows on the road to Mughsail. In summer, its hills and seaside cliffs are covered in delicate yellow flowers that catch the mist. A Saudi tourist collecting blossoms for tea once told me such flowers grow in Paradise. Of that, I have no doubt.

Salalah Travel Guide + 10 Things To Do In Salalah

Updated April 2024, Salalah Travel Guide + 10 Things To Do In Salalah was originally published in July 2020

Most attractive during the lush and green khareef season, Salalah is Oman’s southern city and capital of the Dhofar Governorate. Oman has a long history as a center of Frankincense trade as much the finest come from around the Dhofar region and with Zanzibari nuances from the Sultanate’s former ties to East Africa makes Salalah feel quite unique, in fact, a world away from Muscat.

Start there:  The Ultimate Oman Travel Guide Grab a copy of Bradt Oman to kickstart your travel planning

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A Quick History Of Salalah

Reaching its zenith in the 13th century when Salalah was a main center of trade along the Incense Trail, the city was the functioning capital of Dhofar. As trade slowed, the city eventually fell to ruin.

In the 19th century, Salalah was absorbed by the Sultanate of Muscat and Oman, and from 1932 to 1970 it was the capital. In 1970 the capital was moved back to Muscat.

Where To Sleep In Salalah

We stayed at the  Belad Bont Resort  in Salalah on my recent visit, which I thought was a great midrange option.

Evan Hotel |  Booking.com  |

Belad Bont Resort |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |

Millennium Resort Salalah |  Booking.com  |  Hotels.com  |

Things To Do In Salalah

Al baleed archeological site & museum of the frankincense land.

The ruins of Al Baleed are what remains of the ancient city of Zafar, where Frankincense was loaded on to ships bound for India. The area’s history dates back over 4,000 years and not much is known as to what lead to the ultimate abandonment of the Port of Zafar. The Museum of the Frankincense Land is a must-visit along with the Archeological Site.

Entrance to Museum of the Frankincense Land:  2 OMR

Dahariz Beach

As you’ll see in this post, many of Salalah’s attractions are actually located outside of the city. Dahriz Beach is a unique one, as the beach is sat smack in the middle of the city. A lit promenade backs the coconut-fringed beach, making this a great place to picnic in the day or stroll in the evening.

Al Husn Souq

Al Husn Souq is the place to go to pick up just about anything. From clothing to Frankincense, jewelry, to souvenirs to spices you can find just about anything you might be looking for. The locals working in Husn Souq are very forward and friendly, visit twice and several people will likely even remember you.

Fruit Plantations

Owing to its subtropical climate and lush khareef season, Salalah and the Dhofar region are home to a number of fruit plantations, most notably coconuts, as well as bananas and papayas. Take a two kilometer walk east of the Corniche in Salalah to reach the color fruit stands.

Short on time in Oman? Read my  one week Oman road trip guide

Things To Do Near Salalah

Mughsail Beach

Mughsail Beach is one of the most popular places tourists visit when in Salalah. There is a great viewpoint near the Al Marneef Cave nearby and the Mughsail Blowholes.

Al Marneef Cave

The Al Marneef Cave is a strange rock formation right on the coast. It’s easy to get to with a parking lot and walkway built right up to it, with the Mughsail Blowholes right nearby.

Al Fazayah Beach

Al Fazaya, in my opinion, is the best beach in Salalah for exploring. It’s a roughly 5 kilometer long stretch of sugary white sand with huge boulders dotting the coast. In a way, it took me back to exploring South Portugal’s Algarve beaches a few years ago, just with a different color scheme and a more wild demeanor.

A 4WD is recommended to get from the main Salalah-Surfeet Road down to the beach (however we chanced it and took a tiny car down there and made it down and up just fine).

Khor Rori sits just due east of Salalah and was once one of the most important in the world as it was an important trading post along the Frankincense route. Little is left from Khor Rori’s heyday, but the ruins of Sumhuram Archeological Park are worth a look if you’re coming all the way out here anyway.

Taqah Castle

Taqah is located just east of Salalah too, home to a fishing village and a lovely white sand beach. The main attraction to come to Taqah now is to visit the Taqah Castle. The castle dates back to the 19th century.

Entrance to the Taqah Castle:  0.50 OMR

Mirbat Fish Market

Located about 70 kilometers east of Salalah, the main attraction now is the morning Mirbat Fish Market and the bustling yet small port.

Looking for more ideas? Check out the  12 best things to do in Oman

Off To Yemen Next?

I know that a few of you that are planning to come to Salalah intend to continue on to travel across mainland Yemen. If that’s the case check out my guide to crossing the  Oman-Yemen border at Surfeet .

Have Any Questions About Visiting Salalah?

Ask any questions about any of the things to do in Salalah in the comments section below.

More Posts from Oman:

The Best Road Trips In The World

What It Was Like To Camp In The Wahiba Sands, Oman

The Ultimate Guide To Visiting Wadi Shab, Oman

Dubai-Oman Common Visa

The Yemen-Oman Border Crossing

The Ultimate Oman Travel Guide

One Week in Oman: A Self-Drive, Budget Itinerary

Visiting Bimmah Sinkhole, Oman: Everything You Need To Know

12 Best Things To Do In Oman

Oman Tour: To The Empty Quarter & Dhofar

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PLACES TO VISIT IN SALALAH, OMAN

03 Mar 2024   ||    MIDDLE EAST    |    OMAN

Salalah, Oman’s second city, isolated on the far-south coast near the Yemeni border, feels a world away from, well, anywhere. It could be an independent nation, surrounded by the utterly inhospitable Rub al Khali desert, the vast oil plains of central Oman and thousands of kilometres of entirely empty, breathtaking coastline. If you choose to travel via the desolate, 1000-plus-kilometre trail from Muscat, Salalah’s impact is especially significant. 

Despite this description, Salalah, the foremost city in the governorate of Dhofar, has plenty of things to do for any visiting tourist – its diversity is astounding. The city itself, unlike much of Oman, is covered in fruit trees rather than date palms. During the Khareef summer season, the surroundings are a deep, fertile jungle green, with waterfalls spilling over melting travertine cliffs. In the winter, Salalah is perfect for camping and outdoor adventures, with clear skies and some of the best beaches on the planet. The Dhofar Mountain landscapes are as spectacular as the Hajar range in the north, with craggy, precipitous ridges jutting up against the remarkable turquoise of the Arabian Sea. For the most intrepid, the deep, almost glowing, burnt orange of the Rub al Khali desert sports some of the largest sand dunes on the planet.

Although Salalah often comes up second fiddle to Muscat, receiving significantly less visitors than its capital to the north, this does not do justice to the city’s beauty. Having spent many weeks in the region over three trips, this is our exhaustive, enthusiastic list of the best places to visit in Salalah, Dhofar.

IN THIS GUIDE //

Places to Visit in Salalah, Oman

Why visit salalah, getting to salalah.

  – DRIVING FROM MUSCAT TO SALALAH

    — THE SCENIC ROUTE

  – MUSCAT TO SALALAH BY BUS

 – MUSCAT SALALAH FLIGHTS

  – DUBAI TO SALALAH

WHERE TO STAY IN SALALAH

Best time to visit salalah.

MAP: PLACES TO VISIT IN SALALAH

PLACES TO VISIT IN SALALAH

  – PLACES TO VISIT IN SALALAH CITY

  – PLACES TO VISIT IN SALALAH – OUTSIDE THE CITY

FINAL THOUGHTS – PLACES TO VISIT IN SALALAH

Salalah is simply a little different to the rest of Oman. Even if you’re well-acquainted with the northern part of Oman, it is worth revisiting the country to experience the uniqueness of its southern coast. Here are some reasons:

♦ There is a heavy Yemeni influence in the region – it feels like entering an entirely new country (it’s still wonderfully Omani though!). A resident we met there was explaining how, in the south, they even speak a different, pre-Arabic language.

♦ Khareef season and Salalah Tourism Festival – if you are visiting in the summer months of late June to early September, the monsoon season really puts on a show, with temporary waterfalls flowing ubiquitously and the scenery turning an uncharacteristic green. The tourism festival has a range of events on throughout the summer in the city.

♦ Exquisite camping locations – we think that some of the best wild camping in the world can be found in the region surrounding Salalah.

♦ Frankincense trade history – the UNESCO recognised locations in Oman were some of the most important and oldest caravan trade routes in the ancient world.

♦ Lack of tourists – Salalah has so few international tourists. We’ve never spent time at the best places to visit in Salalah with other tourists, unless they were Omani.

♦ Diverse landscapes – for outdoor enthusiasts, it’s all about the deserts, beaches, mountains, waterfalls and coastlines. All of which are spectacular.

Salalah is a small, isolated city with a population of around 450,000. It is situated on the southern Omani coast in the governorate of Dhofar (the largest in Oman), bordering Yemen and Saudi Arabia. This governorate is made from ten wilayats, or provinces, including the wilayat of Salalah. To reach this region, the options are to drive, take a bus or fly.

⋅ DRIVING FROM MUSCAT TO SALALAH ⋅

The distance from Muscat to Salalah is around 1000 kilometres, when taking route 31, the fastest highway through central Oman. This can be driven in one long day and takes around 9.5 hours. It’s an easy, comfortable drive, mostly frequented by lorries. Often, during certain sections, you’ll have miles and miles of road all to yourself (if you discount the camels!). This is the quickest way to travel from Muscat to Salalah by road.

There are services along this route, including gas stations, bathrooms and shops. The journey can be begun from the beautiful ancient city of Nizwa too, which cuts off an hour or so of the total travel time.

Oman is not a particularly public transport-friendly country so we’d suggest renting your own vehicle, plus Oman is very safe and easy to drive in. Check out our guide to driving in Oman for more information.

THE SCENIC ROUTE

It is also possible to drive the Muscat to Salalah coastal ‘scenic’ route. This will take, at minimum, several days but is well-worth the detours if you have the available time.

The route can include as many of the following as you’d want: the coastline before and after Sur, Ras al Jinz, Masirah Island, Duqm, Ras Madrakah, Miji, Ash Shuwaymiyyah, Hasik, Sadah and Mirbat. Including all these stops is time consuming, but for the ultimate Oman adventure, we’d absolutely recommend it!

CAR HIRE FOR YOUR SALALAH ITINERARY

We always rent our vehicles all over the world, including our recent trips in Oman, with Discover Cars . They’re often the most affordable, plus they paid out immediately on an insurance claim we made when our car took some heavy damage in Sicily. We fully recommend them.

If you book through the link below, we make a small profit, at zero cost to you, which helps us write these posts with no advertising! We only endorse products and companies we *actually* use regularly. For more information, read our position on affiliates .

TAKE A LOOK BELOW OR  CHECK CAR RENTAL  

⋅ MUSCAT TO SALALAH BY BUS ⋅

To travel by road from Muscat to Salalah, another option is the public bus. It is then simple to rent a vehicle in Salalah directly if you don’t want to drive the 1000-kilometre journey yourself!

Buses run from Muscat to Salalah using the Mwasalat service. These are decent quality intercity services, run by the Omani authorities. As of mid-2023, the intercity route 100 operates between Muscat and Salalah three times a day at 07:00, 18:00 and 19:30. A single ticket costs 8 OMR (about £16) and a return ticket is 12.5 OMR (about £25.50). Tickets are reservable online via the website (when the website works) and the timetable can be found on the Mwasalat website . The journey takes around 13 hours. 

⋅ FLIGHTS FROM MUSCAT TO SALALAH ⋅

Direct flights from Muscat to Salalah operate multiple times daily with SalamAir and Oman Air. These cost from around 30 OMR (about £60) each way and take around 1.5 hours.

We use Skyscanner to research and book all of our flights.

⋅ DUBAI TO SALALAH ⋅

There are no direct buses from Dubai to Salalah, Oman. Two buses are needed to travel the Dubai to Salalah route by public transport. First, take the Al Khanjry bus from Dubai to Muscat , then the Mwasalat service from Muscat to Salalah. This could potentially mean an overnight stop in Muscat. 

It is also possible to fly directly from Dubai to Salalah with Flydubai or Emirates. Emirates often costs double the price of Flydubai.

If you are looking for the cheapest flights possible from Dubai to Salalah, consider flying from Abu Dhabi instead. Wizz Air fly directly from Abu Dhabi to Salalah, often for as little as 100 AED or 11 OMR one way (about £21).

Check all the routes mentioned in this section on Skyscanner – it’s the cheapest place to book flights and the only site we personally use and vouch for.

FLIGHTS TO SALALAH

We exclusively book our flights through Skyscanner . It’s the cheapest way to book flights from anywhere in the world.

I f you book your flights to Salalah through our link below, we make a tiny commission that helps to keep this site running, at zero cost to you. Thank you!

Salalah has a myriad of accommodation options depending on your budget. There are numerous upscale, luxury resorts along the beaches and coast, budget apartments within the city and affordable business-style hotels in the centre.

For a mid-range business hotel that we have stayed in a few times, we recommend the Salalah Gardens Hotel. It’s in a mall with an attached Carrefour hypermarket and is near a Lulu hypermarket. The hotel is central, has tonnes of free parking, access to shops, the rooms have small kitchenettes and there is an exceptional breakfast.

Another fantastic budget option is to wild camp. There are so many incredible spots with unimaginable views; it’s truly a camper’s dream. To learn more about camping, take a look at our guide to camping in Oman , plus our favourite camp sites across the country.

Salalah can be enjoyed all year around, although daytimes are always hot, between 28 and 35 degrees throughout the year. The nights in Salalah are more moderate during the winter months, perfect for camping, with no rain and clear skies.

The Khareef (monsoon) season runs through the summer months of June to September. In other countries, many would avoid the monsoon season, but it’s actually the most popular time to visit Salalah. The verdant landscapes and incredible waterfalls are only present during this time. Temperatures drop significantly during July and August too, making outdoor pursuits tolerable!

Personally, we love visiting Salalah during the winter months of December to February for its clear blue skies, lack of rain and warm temperatures. This season is also perfect for camping, diving and dolphin and whale spotting from the coast!

After March, until around the Khareef season in June, the day and night-time temperatures rise to the low-thirties and upper-twenties respectively. 

EXPLORE FAIRYTALE WADI DAMM    |    OMAN ROAD TRIP ITINERARY

PLACES TO VISIT IN SALALAH - MAP

Below is a saveable Google Map of everything around Salalah mentioned throughout this post.

To save this map, click the star icon next to the title.

Places to Visit in Salalah

⋅ places to visit in salalah city ⋅.

The city of Salalah is where most people will base themselves on a trip to southern Oman. It has all the normal mod-cons such as malls, cinemas, hotels, supermarkets, plus an international airport. The city also boasts the biggest seaport on the Arab peninsula, so expect to see some industry! To counter this, it has manicured, palm lined boulevards, beautifully crafted roundabouts and is frankly just an incredibly attractive city!

Salalah is home to some exceptional beaches that were always empty when we visited (despite being in the centre of a city!). They are low-key, lined with coconut palms and what felt like endless space to park and drive on the sand. Further east, Dhareez Beach is lined with small restaurants and shady cabanas, ideal for families (and great for bird watching!).

SULTAN QABOOS MOSQUE

Named for the former leader of Oman, Sultan Qaboos, who was originally from Salalah, this central Salalah mosque is exquisite and allows visitors between 08:00 and 11:00 each day but Friday.

AL BALID ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITE (OR AL BALEED)

Al Balid, part of the UNESCO designated ‘Land of Frankincense’ site, is an easy-to-access archaeological site containing the remnants of an ancient city that prospered after the decline of Kohr Rori. As with its predecessor, Al Balid was known for the proliferation of Frankincense. There are even informative signs in English, a rarity in Oman!

Also on-site is the ‘Museum of the Land of Frankincense’ which is worth spending some time at to learn more about why this site is significant, although mostly it seems to be about the maritime history of this region of Oman. The entry fee is 2 OMR per car and the site is closed on Fridays and Sundays. There is also a nearby beach too.

BUY SOME FRUIT

It’s a weird one, but everyone visits the fruit markets along As Sultan Qaboos Street, the main road running parallel to the beach. Driving along here, you’ll see a tonne of thatched little stalls with many bananas hanging from them.

We bought a load of fruit and also got to try some raw tamarind, which was a first for us!

⋅ PLACES TO VISIT IN SALALAH - OUTSIDE THE CITY ⋅

Surrounding Salalah is some of the most scenic landscapes across the entire of the Gulf, in our opinion. It’s striking, dramatic and no matter what time of year, you’ll find something memorable to see and do! 

Here, in no particular order, are the best places to visit in Salalah. If a four-wheel drive vehicle is necessary, we’ve mentioned it, plus any fees and the distance from central Salalah.

WADI DARBAT

This is possibly the best wadi in Oman , despite having relatively few visitors when compared with places like Wadi Shab and Wadi Bani Khalid in northern Oman.

Wadi Darbat, around a half-hour drive east of Salalah, is easy to access by paved roads and even has facilities like cafes and bathrooms (an extreme rarity in Oman!). The outrageously blue-green waters and immense waterfalls will astound you, even during the dry season (this wadi runs year-round).

We’ve written a detailed up-to-date guide for Wadi Darbat , so if you’re interested in visiting, check it out.

Cost:  free

Distance from Salalah: 46 kilometres

BEACHES IN SALALAH

There are so many absolutely epic beaches in and around Salalah. If you are looking for some jaw-dropping coastline, the best sandy strips and scenery in the entire of Oman are found in the Dhofar region.

There are different types of beaches in Salalah for every kind of traveller. From family friendly ones like Mughsail Beach and Dhareez Beach, to isolated four-wheel drive only beaches like Shaat Hidden Beach and the multiple Fazayah beaches. In Dhalqut, there are white, sandy beaches  without a single footprint on them, accompanied by  crystal -like turquoise waters,  offering views of Yemen’s mountains.

No matter what beach you are looking for, Salalah has it in droves. Have a look at our dedicated post on the most beautiful beaches in Salalah for more information.

Car: 2WD/4WD dependent on choice

Distance from Salalah: various

WADI AYUN (AIN AYUOON)

This is a less well-known, all-year wadi in Oman that will almost certainly have you exploring some pools completely alone (apart from some oversized dragonflies).

Wadi Ayun is an easy to access valley (on a gravelly road), less than an hour inland from Salalah, which makes for an amazing half day of exploring. It’s not particularly suited for young kids though as there are quite a few cliff edges and uneven paths.

The 20-minute hike from the carpark is only mildly intrepid, having to find your way to the bottom of a gorge where the beautiful blue pools sit, enclosed by small patches of tall grass (somehow both times we visited we got lost though). If you perch on the overhangs at the valley top, you can watch birds swoop in and out of openings in the cliffs opposite, while listening to the call to prayer echoing from miles away.

There are no facilities anywhere near the site either, so bring food, water, a hat and sunblock (there is very little shade!).

GPS: 17.248528, 53.887546

Distance from Salalah: 56 kilometres

DHALQUT (DHALKUT)

We mentioned Dhalqut above in relation to beaches, and this little town has one of the best beaches in Oman. It’s also pretty much as far as you can drive without passing the border into Yemen!

Dhalqut is a small place, but has a lovely beach, some stunning scenery and even a crashed helicopter on the beach. Half the fun of visiting is the outstanding scenic drive – the journey to Dhalqut is worth it for this alone.

It is also possible to visit Wadi Sayq (just off the road) en-route, plus the beaches mentioned in the ‘beaches in Salalah’ section above.

Distance from Salalah: 158 kilometres

Once the capital of southern Oman, the ancient city of Mirbat is just under an hour east of Salalah, past Wadi Darbat . Historically, it was well-known for Arabian horses and the frankincense trade.

As a traditional southern Omani town, it’s worth checking out the harbour, with its traditional dhow boats and Yemeni-style merchant housing. Mirbat, as with everywhere along the Dhofar coastline, is also home to some empty white sandy beaches. Mirbat Castle, the site of a well-known battle in 1972, is also worth a visit but is currently under renovation (in 2023). 

Our favourite thing to do near Mirbat is off-roading to the east of the city, towards the tiny town of Sadah. The entire area has superb coastal views, exquisite mountains, birdwatching and even camping. It’s a nature-lover’s playground.

Car: 2WD (4WD for off-roading)

Distance from Salalah: 70 kilometres

KHOR RORI AND THE FRANKINCENSE TRAIL

An estuary at the mouth of Wadi Darbat, Khor Rori is an attractive stretch of water (‘Kohr’ means ‘fresh-water outlet’), bound by a sand bar during low tide and home to the ruins of the historic fortified trading city of Sumhuram.

Founded around the 4th century BCE, Sumhuram has historical trading connections to Yemen, India and even as far as the Mediterranean. It is regarded as one of the most important trading posts in ancient Arabia as a result. A UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2000 (as part of the ‘Land of Frankincense’), it’s worth visiting just for the views alone (even if you’re not into the Frankincense Trail history).

This is a fascinating stop, perfect for a day trip twinned with a visit to Wadi Darbat. They are connected geographically and located off the same highway junction.

Cost: entry to Khor Rori/Sumhuram – per vehicle 2 OMR

Distance from Salalah: 41 kilometres

UBAR AND THE RUB AL KHALI DESERT

The lost city of Ubar (or Wubar or Shisr), although technically part of the Frankincense Trail UNESCO World Heritage site, is probably not worth driving all the way out to the desert for (it’s far!). This city was a major stopping point on the caravan trade routes across Arabia and historically a very significant site, however is not super exciting to visit nowadays. As much as I’m a big fan of solitude and adventure, it’s only partly excavated and there’s not much known about the site. 

However, it’s worth heading to Ubar if you also intend to check out the world-class dunes of the Rub al Khali desert, by following the road onwards towards ‘Fasad’. From there, the tracks lead to the desert, but please don’t go without adequate preparation, such as extra fuel, food, water and driving in a convoy. You’ll need to have experience driving on sand too. If you want to go but aren’t comfortable with the risks, consider taking a tour, such as this tour with Viator .

Car: 2WD/4WD essential for sand dunes

Costs: entry to Ubar: vehicles 2 OMR each

Distance from Salalah: 170 kilometres

AROUND HASIK

East of Sadah, and a lengthy two-hour drive east of Salalah, is the tiny town of Hasik. This unassuming little town is surrounded by some of the most unbelievable scenery. It is backed by dramatic peaks and fronted by wide stretches of sand, punctuated with small fishing boats. We would recommend camping as it is a bit of a drive to get here and back in a day from Salalah. However, if you can’t camp, we’d still recommend a visit – the drive may be long, but the scenery is utterly epic! There is also the option to stay in Mirbat, which cuts the driving time in half.

A few places we recommend visiting in the area include:

♦ Wadi Al Nakheel 17.599463, 55.253040

♦ Canyon View Point 17.730869, 55.312311

♦ Dolphin and whale watching (in the dry season) – common between Hadbeen and Hasik

♦ Prophet Saleh’s Tomb (PBUH) 17.312315, 55.257969

♦ Natif Waterfall (during the rainy season)

♦ Waterfall at Ash Shuwaymiyyah 17.935166, 55.526805

Distance from Salalah: 187 kilometres

The biggest highlight of a trip to the small coastal town of Taqah is Taqah Castle. This 19th century fortification turned museum shows off tools, weapons and more from ancient Oman. It’s compact, with beautiful architecture and stretching views from the top of the steep steps up. The castle was closed the last time we visited, so check ahead.

It’s also worth popping up on the cliffs to the east of the town (‘Taqah View Point’, 17.031892, 54.409972 ) for some exceptional views of the even more exceptional beach. If you have a four-wheel drive vehicle, continue further along the coast to the east and check out ‘Taqah Hidden Beach’ and alternative views of the Kohr Rori sand bar ( 17.031234, 54.434247 ).

Distance from Salalah: 34 kilometres

EFTALQUOT (OR IFTALQOOT)

Eftalquot, for some completely unfathomable reason, isn’t a place you’ll see popping up on most travel blogs for Salalah. It’s a large cliff side region just to the west of Salalah’s port area and, if you’re willing to wander down the steep cliffs, presents you with a wide stretch of beach.

There is a massive, rusting, abandoned ship at the bottom of the cliffs, just sitting there in the perfect green-blue ocean. Aside from this, the most fantastic views and zero other visitors, there’s also some seriously fun off-road tracks if you have rented a four-wheel drive vehicle. 

We spent one of our favourite days in Salalah here, and it was only supposed to be an hour!

GRAVITY HILL

This is a weird, quirky stop, a little off the main highway east of Salalah.

It’s a spot on the road where if you put your car in neutral, it will appear to be rolling up hill against gravity due to the surrounding terrain. You can try it out – just keep an eye out for the sign ‘Location of Gravity’.

It’s weird, but a little bit of weird fun.

GPS: 17.041226, 54.612730

Distance from Salalah: 59 kilometres

WATERFALLS AND SPRINGS DURING THE KHAREEF

The monsoon season brings a lot of rain to Salalah (and strangely, tourists). Normally, excessive rain would be a downer, but in the case of Salalah it’s a huge draw. This is the busiest time of year in the city as most tourists visit to see the ayns (meaning ‘springs’) or waterfalls. The Salalah Tourism Festival, running from mid-July to the end of August, coincides with the Khareef season, holds various events across the city.

Here is a list of a few springs and waterfalls you might consider checking out:

♦ Ayn Jarziz – a lovely green spot with some waterfalls, very close to Salalah

♦ Ayn Sahlounout – pretty pool, close to Salalah

♦ Ayn Razat – some nice pools and caves

♦ Ayn Athum – very cool waterfalls and an amazing travertine cliff

FINAL THOUGHTS - PLACES TO VISIT IN SALALAH

Salalah is often missed off an Oman itinerary due to its distance from Muscat. However, we love the city of Salalah and have returned on each and every visit to Oman. It’s an absolute banger and rarely gets visitors from outside the Gulf states, which is a shame.

We feel that you could easily spend a week or more exploring the best places to visit in Salalah and the surrounding Dhofar region. If you get the opportunity, definitely consider it for your next trip!

Whether you are visiting for waterfalls and lush greenery, soaring cliffs, pristine sandy beaches , off-road adventures, ancient history or otherworldly sand dunes, Salalah and surrounding Dhofar will not disappoint.

We hope this is helpful, have an amazing trip!

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3 thoughts on “The 15 Best Places to Visit in Salalah (2024)”

Hey thank you for the nice summaries. It really helps with our planning. Do you guys also know about snorkeling spots in Dhofar? Thank you!

Hi, thanks for your message! We’ve never been snorkelling in Dhofar but know it’s best around Mirbat, to the east of Salalah. There are a few hotels in that region who you could message that might know more specific details. We also met up with a whole bunch of divers who were (scuba) diving off Shaat Hidden Beach west of Salalah too, but I don’t know how decent it would be for snorkelling. If you find somewhere particularly good, let us know – I’d love to snorkel there on our next visit! Hope you have a great trip 🙂

Hello, we are thinking of coming for 8-9 days to salalah in october 2024. We’ve already done Oman (Muscat and around) and we loved it ! We did a lot of off road and camping … I am wondering if it’s really worth renting a 4×4 for salalah or 2WD is enough for seeing already nice place ? what would you recommend ? or share half of the week with 2WD and rest with 4×4 as the distance seems not so long …

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Everything You Need to Know About Salalah's Khareef Season

Between wadis, mountains, crystal seas, golden beaches and sandy deserts, Oman provides nature-lovers with a lot to explore. Nevertheless, there’s nothing that turns Oman into a stunning paradise quite like khareef season in Salalah. Here’s everything you need to know about this amazingly natural festival.

What is salalah’s khareef season.

Khareef, which means ‘autumn’ in Arabic , is a period of seasonal weather in the southern Dhofar governorate of Oman. It causes the lands to become covered in green, the hills to be surrounded by white fog, and light rain to drizzle almost 24 hours a day. Unlike the extreme hot weather in the rest of Oman from July to September, Dhofar and its famous city Salalah have a cool refreshing weather that attracts visitors from all over the world. #khareefseason will start tomorrow (Tuesday) in #Dhofar governorate and will continue until September 21, according to the Ministry of Tourism. Are you planning to visit? #khareefsalalah A post shared by Times of Oman (@timesofoman) on Jun 20, 2016 at 4:03am PDT The Ministry of Tourism runs a special ‘Khareef Festival’ and ‘Salalah Tourism Festival’ to celebrate this spectacular season, featuring special traditional performances alongside stalls selling Omani handicrafts and traditional food . #khareefsalalah #salalah #welovesalalah #weloveoman A post shared by Trade links (@tls_food_service_equipment) on Jul 30, 2017 at 12:46pm PDT

Where to go and what to do during khareef season

Wadi Darbat

Another amazing place to enjoy the natural beauty of Salalah during khareef season is the beach at Al Mughsail. As one of the most spectacular beaches in Salalah, it has a dramatic coastline with crashing waves.

It has also unique blowholes that are scattered across the beach, where sea water rushes strongly forming natural fountains. You will most likely get wet if you stop to check them out, but it is absolutely an unmissable experience. Blow hole #mughsailbeach #blowholes #waterspray #oman A post shared by Rachel Harrison-Wallace (@rhmh.w) on Oct 26, 2016 at 10:02pm PDT Haffa Souq

This place is one of the biggest and most famous local markets in Salalah, where you can buy amazing traditional Omani items such as gold and silver jewelry, handicrafts, Omani clothes, pottery, and frankincense. It is also a great place to get a sense of the Omani culture and heritage. During khareef season, traditional Omani and Dhofari performances take place here. Shopping in Salalah Souq #loveoman❤️ #oman🇴🇲#haffasouq #dhofar A post shared by sandra (@beluga61) on Mar 4, 2017 at 9:27pm PST Try the famous traditional Omani camel meat

One of the most famous dishes in Salalah is camel meshkak , which is kebab made from camel meat. With special Omani seasoning, traditional Omani rice and Omani bread, this is an unmissable mouthwatering dish. There are lots of stalls and restaurants that serve this dish – however, the Sahl Ittin, or Ittin Plain, is the best-known place where there are lots of stalls that serve the dish, along with grilled chicken and beef, rice, bread and salads. It is located near the city center, and visitors can enjoy their meal in the middle of beautiful views and fresh air. Miracle land🌴 #tb #to #salalah #vscocity #vscocam #camelmeat #instafood #vscolife A post shared by Abd_ll_ah (@your_father.__) on Jun 5, 2017 at 5:52am PDT Al Fazayeh Beach

Al Fazayeh Beach is another mind-blowing natural attraction to visit in Salalah. It has amazingly crystal turquoise waters, and a rocky coastline. The drive to the beach goes through splendid green mountains and beautiful natural scenery.

Drink Salalah’s famous coconut juice

Coconut trees are everywhere in Salalah, which makes coconut juice one of the most famous fresh juices in the city, and the most in-demand, especially in khareef season. There are many fresh fruit huts or stalls in Salalah and Dhofar where visitors can stop off to quench their thirst – make sure to try it as you watch the mind-blowing natural attractions of Salalah . Having coconut drink at tropical style fruit huts (stalls) is a refreshing activity#coconutporn #wadidarbat #salalah#nature#river A post shared by Nancy (@nancita__) on Sep 3, 2017 at 11:55pm PDT

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Salalah Itinerary: A Practical Travel Guide to Dhofar Region in Oman (+map)

Planning on visiting Salalah and Dhofar region in Oman but not sure where to start? This Salalah itinerary planner will walk you through the best places to visit and things to do in Salalah , how to get to Salalah and around the Dhofar region as well as the best places to stay for any budget, including some great camping spots. Use my Salalah travel guide to easily plan your unforgettable visit to the tropicals of the Middle East. 

Soaring peaks are rising above the clouds, majestic waterfalls are dropping into turquoise rivers gushing through the valleys of verdant rolling hills covered in fog. Wind-swept tall palm trees dot the white sand beaches with hundreds of camels freely roaming around. This is Salalah, the capital of Dhofar, Oman’s largest yet most remote region. It is locally known for the Khareef season- a phenomenal tropical monsoon somewhat similar to the one in Kerala, India. 

While the temperatures are hitting up and over 50 degrees Celsius during the Middle Eastern summer, Salalah in the south of Oman is blessed with mild weather and rain from June to mid-September. This climatic wonderland is where many locals in the Gulf region seek cooler weather and rush to enjoy the lush greenery.  

Although less known to international tourists compared to Muscat and Northern Oman, Salalah is the most magical place you will find in the Middle East.

Based on my Salalah road trip experience, I share practical travel tips on how to visit Salalah and the Dhofar region in Oman . The suggested itinerary includes the best places to visit in Salalah , when to visit, how many days to spend, and other handy tips and interesting facts about the area. 

It is a long post, thus feel free to skip ahead using a table of content. But I recommended going through all of it to learn how to best plan your Salalah trip. 

• For detailed information about driving from Dubai to Salalah, make sure to check my practical guide for Dubai to Salalah road trip . It can be also used if you are driving from Muscat . 
• Planning an Oman road trip? Check my suggested itinerary for a 7-day Oman road trip which covers the Nothern part of the Sultanate.

Disclaimer:  This post contains affiliate links, which means that I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). This helps to keep my blog running and growing by creating more awesome free content for you.

Ultimate Salalah Travel Guide: How to Visit Dhofar Region in Oman

Is it worth visiting salalah and why travel to salalah and dhofar region in oman .

Salalah is unquestionably worth visiting when traveling to Oman. And here is why: 

• Salalah is one of the most distinct areas in Oman and the Middle East rich in the jaw-dropping scenery of dramatic cliffs, wild white sand beaches with turquoise blue waters reminiscent of the Caribbeans, lush banana plantations, and cascading waterfalls. 
• Also known for the abundance of Frankincense trees, Salalah historically was a major trade center along the Incense Trail. That being said, a few important archaeological sites are present to be explored. 
• However, what makes Salalah so unique is the above-mentioned tropical monsoon season locally known as Khareef. Starting in June the climate magically switches from dry to foggy and rainy. This unusual to the Middle East weather allows Salalah’s landscapes to transform into a green misty wonderland which you can witness every year until late September. 

How many days in Salalah? 

When planning my road trip to Salalah, I wasn’t sure how many days do I actually need to visit the area as the sights are spread out all over the place in the Dhofar region. 

There are guides suggesting 1 or 2 days itinerary for Salalah. However, after visiting it myself, I would recommend budgeting at least 3 to 4 days in Salalah . If you can, aim for a week in Salalah to travel slowly and enjoy the best of Dhofar.

The easiest way to plan the logistics is to look at Salalah city as a jump-off point for visiting surrounding areas. Thus, you would need:

• A minimum of 1 day for the west of Salalah;
• At least 1 day for the east side of Salalah;
• 1 day for Salalah city and nearby attractions;
• Add 1 more day if you want to visit Empty Quarter in the north. 

3-4 days would be just a short glimpse into this wonderful region of Salalah. Stay longer if you can. 

• My top picks of Salalah, Taqa, and Mirbat accommodations (more recommendations of different accommodations in the area at the end of this post)
• Grand Flora Hotel – Located in the busy part of Salalah city this hotel offers a reasonable rate to have a clean simple room to sleep in. They also have a cafe and restaurant which is good value for money and an easy choice instead of looking where to eat in the city. Price range: $
• Al Balled Resort by Anantara – Located at the beachfront oasis, this is Salalah’s first villa luxury resort which will provide you with a full-on luxury experience and is the perfect place to stay if you plan just to relax. Price range: $$$
• Havanah Salalah – located 30 minutes east of Salalah city in Havana compound, this studio type of room for up to 3 people has its own kitchenette and terrace and is a convenient base for visiting wadi Darbat and Samhan mountain, as well as Mirbat and Taqah. $$$
• Lovely Beach Apartment – located on Taqa beach, close to Taqa viewpoint, and as the name suggests this self-contained apartment (up to 3 people) offers a balcony with great sea views. $$
• Alila Hinu Bay Resort Mirbat – this gorgeous resort a few kilometers east of Mirbat offers a 5-star experience and getaway. Modern rooms with terraces and private pools, a huge common pool area, a restaurant, and a wild beach close by. Price range: $$$.

The best time to go to Salalah?

Unlike the rest of Oman, Salalah and the south of Dhofar are year-round destinations. Thanks to the rainy Khareef season, the temperatures in the South Dhofar region average 27 degrees Celsius making it possible to travel to Salalah any time of the year.

Summertime brings Khareef and is considered the peak season attracting many local visitors and tourists from surrounding GCC countries (UAE and Saudi Arabia). 

Visiting Salalah during the shoulder season

If you want to see the barren mountains turn green, and chase a few waterfalls, but avoid the Khareef crowds, the ideal time to go to Salalah is around the first week of September to the middle of September. I visited on the last week of September and I still was lucky to catch the fog, and greenery and see a couple of waterfalls (although not at their full capacity). However, this varies year to year depending on the amount of rainfall during monsoon.

The other advantage going in shoulder Khareef season is that there won’t be as much rain and the fog coverage isn’t too dense to be able to admire beautiful landscapes. The downside of the shoulder season is that the temperatures are slightly higher than in summer (around 30 degrees as opposed to around 26) and it is still extremely humid.

Visiting Salalah during the peak Khareef season

Unlike the rest of the middle east, late June, July, until the end of August is the peak of the Khareef season. It is also the time to see the iconic landscapes of Salalah in full bloom. This is the time when local Omanis, as well as residents and citizens of surrounding GCC countries (Saudi and the UAE), rush to Salalah in order to escape the exhilarating summer heat common for the Arabian Peninsula. 

The Arabian monsoon season in Dhofar brings light rain and thick fog. However, it is not extremely windy or stormy as the Asian type of monsoon. For this reason, Arabs really love coming to Salalah in summer. 

If you love the mysterious foggy scene and don’t mind the rain and the crowds following a similar itinerary or would like to visit the yearly Salalah festival held mid-July to late August, then Khareef is a perfect time to go to Salalah. 

Note though that hotels get quickly booked out in Salalah during Khareef months.

Nonetheless, if you are planning on wild camping, this might not concern you. The only thing to have in mind is that it rains a lot, and staying outdoors overnight might not be the most pleasant experience for some. 

Visiting Salalah outside Khareef season (from October to late May) 

Although greenery stays through the autumn, come to Salalah in winter or spring and you will find barren landscapes similar to the rest of the Middle East.  The amount of greenery and prevalence of waterfalls (except for Wadi Darbat which is green all year round) depends on the rainfall during each monsoon season. 

Nonetheless, the weather temperatures in autumn, winter, and spring will be still pleasant to enjoy outdoors. Also, clear skies in winter will allow admiring of impressive cliffs and landscapes which are usually hidden in the mist and clouds during the rainy season. Wild camping, especially on the beach, is also more pleasant in winter. 

If you are planning on exploring the Empty Quarter, on the North side of Dhofar, then winter is the ideal time to do so as temperatures will be lower. 

Post and pre-monsoon times from October to November and May to June sometimes bring turbulent stormy weather to the Salalah area. This is something not to be taken lightly as there were catastrophic natural events in south Dhofar. 

How to get to Salalah? 

The fastest way to get to Salalah is to take a flight from Oman’s capital Muscat or from the UAE. It takes only 1.5 hours from Muscat and 2 hours from Dubai or Abu Dhabi to reach Salalah by air.  Search for affordable flights from any destination using Skyscanner .

Adventurous travelers often choose to go on a long road trip either from Muscat or Dubai (UAE) . The journey requires driving over 1000 kilometers for 10 to 13 hours (depending on where you start from) for the shortest but the most boring route running through the dry desert without any tourist attractions in between. 

Nonetheless, the trip can be parted with an overnight stop in Nizwa- a traditional and culturally rich town in North Oman. 

You can also choose to follow the coastal road which is more dynamic but significantly longer than the inland route. Be ready to drive over 20 hours from south to north of Oman or vice versa. Account for at least 2 overnight stops to reduce the continuous and tiring time by the wheel. 

Before you opt to drive to Salalah, make sure to also read my detailed Dubai to Salalah road trip planner. 

It is possible to reach Salalah from Muscat by bus. The journey takes over 12 hours. The bus station is located in the Ruwi area. Surprisingly, the ticket price for such a long journey is only 10-20 EUR, depending on the bus company and the quality of the bus.

Oman visit visa

As a UAE resident, you no longer need a visa to enter Oman (your residency must be valid for at least 3 months). As a tourist in UAE, you will have to apply for Oman visit visa.  Some nationalities (mostly EU passport holders and the UK, US, and Canada) can also obtain a visa on arrival, although getting it online is recommended.

You can get an Oman visa online via the Royal Oman Police website. Alternatively, you can use ivisa services. Those guys will get the Oman visa sorted for you for an extra fee. 

ALSO READ: You can find detailed information about UAE-Oman visa types and requirements in my Dubai (UAE) to Oman by road post.

Do I need 4WD to visit Salalah? 

4WD is not essential to visit many of Salalah’s attractions. However, it is beneficial if you want to explore more and go offroad, as well as reach some of the secluded beaches. Also, if you are visiting during the Khareef season, some places which were reachable with any car during the dry season will be accessible only in a 4×4 (like Fazayah beach, for example). 

4WD is essential if you are planning to go into the desert (granted you know how to drive in the dunes) and some secret beaches via very bumpy steep offroad. 

If you are flying into Salalah and thinking about what type of car to rent, I would recommend still getting a 4 WD for complete freedom to reach all the places. 

Looking for a great rental car deal? I use those websites to shop for the best car hire rates:

• Check for the best car rental rates in Oman and UAE at Discovercars .
• Also, browse UAE rental car offers with local providers at Localrent .
• I also recommend cross-checking the offers with the biggest car search engine Rentalcars .

Salalah itinerary: the best things to do and places to visit in Salalah

Salalah City serves as a great base for visiting southern Oman. Most of the natural attractions lay outside the city spread in all directions and require 20 min to 2 hours of driving time, depending on the destination. 

For this reason, the best way to plan your Salalah itinerary is to dedicate different days to visit the west, east, central and north areas of Dhofar governorate. 

West of Salalah: best places to visit

Let’s start with the most dramatic area of all – the west side of Salalah. If you only had one day in Salalah, I would strongly recommend heading West toward the Yemeni border. 

The stretch of the coastline to the west of Salalah is the most jaw-dropping featuring high cliffs raising above the clouds, windy roads leading to secluded beaches, and a few sleepy Omani villages which surprisingly had the best specialty coffee in the area. The scenery reminiscing of Jurassic Park in close vicinity to the barren lands is something I found very fascinating.

The most beautiful places in west Salalah that you should include in your Salalah itinerary:

• Al Mughsayl beach and the blowholes (only seen in Khareef);
• Fazayah beach-one of the most beautiful beaches in the area (4WD is a must during Khareef);
• Shaat mountain viewpoint;
• Rakhyut seaside town;
• Dhalkut – the last town before the Yemeni border.

Al Mughsayl beach and the blowholes

Al Mughsayl (Al Mughsail) beach is one the well-known places in Salalah and is an extremely popular destination to visit due to the wonderful landscapes and phenomenal blowholes-the natural water fountain shooting from the ground. Kids especially find this attraction fascinating. Note that blowholes are only in their full power during Khareef season. The rest of the year you won’t see much.

Tip: if you want to skip the crowds you should visit Al Mughsail blowholes first thing in the morning. Together with Al Marneef cave in the same area, Mughsail is one of the most visited places in the west of Salalah. 

Before you reach the popular spot of Mughsail, you will pass an incredibly beautiful stretch of white sand beach with soaring rocks in the distance. To me, this part of Mughsail beach was more exciting than the tourist spot with blowholes and the cave. Although you can’t deny the beauty of the area, it is just too commercialized to my liking. Thus, I didn’t spend there much time. 

Continuing further west, you will start ascending Jabal Qamar taking some serious hairpin roads until you reach the turn-off point to Al Fazayah beach. 

Al Fazayah beach

The wild turquoise blue Fazayah is one the best beaches in Salalah and Dhofar governorate. Composed of the main beach and several secluded coves, Fazayah is accessible through a windy dirt road with mind-blowing views all around. 

You should have a 4WD if you are visiting during the rainy season. However, sedans with stronger engines also can manage driving slowly when it is dry. 

Shaat mountain viewpoint

At 1000 meters above sea level, suspended in the clouds Shaat mountain and a village of the same name are yet another impressive sight in West Salalah. 

The Shaat viewpoint is often covered in clouds and you will need some luck to get a clear view of the far-stretching high cliffs. It is very unlikely to get an opening between the clouds during Khareef season, but during the dry season in winter you should definitely be able to see some of the most amazing coastline views. 

Shaat secret beach (4 WD is a must) 

Another adventurous spot in the Shaat area is Shaat secret beach accessible only in 4WD. It is a small piece of paradise reachable within a steep offroad drive with a 1000-meter drop in elevation. Visiting Shaat hidden beach for safety reasons is advisable only during a drier season.

IMPORTANT: there is a military checkpoint before you reach Shaat viewpoint. Make sure you carry your passport, driving license for the driver, and car registration documents. The process is quick and straightforward- you will be asked where you going and that is it-officers are friendly.

Rakhyut fishing town

A quaint Rakhyut fishing village is situated midway from Shaat to Dhalkut. The drive to Rakhyut offers some of the most scenic vistas. The village itself is mysterious featuring a large beach with high cliffs around it. Account for 45 minutes one way when descending to Rakhyut from the main road. You can stop for lunch at one of a few local restaurants and get some great coffee in a kiosk next to Rakhyut wadi. 

Dhalkut – the last town before the Yemeni border

The last sleepy village even more strange than Rakhyut town is Dhalkut. It is also the last settlement before the Yemeni border and you will pass one more military checkpoint. 

The road leading to Dhalkut is sort of trilling-windy, steep and at the same time extremely scenic. 

We found a group of camels chilling in the sea-a scene I was always dreaming to photograph, thus the long drive was definitely worth it. 

Make sure to try the yummiest pistachio latte sold in a lonely kiosk at the very end of the main street which runs along the beach.

You can also stop at the ages-old baobab tree on your way in or out of Dhalkut.

TIP: If you want to visit all the above-mentioned places as a day trip from Salalah town, you must start extremely early with the sunrise or even before, and only spend a short time in each location. Trust me I tried doing them all in one day starting late at 9 AM and had to skip Al Fazayah beach because we ran out of daylight. 

The drive to the farthest point which is Dhalkut town is 2.5 hours. Detour to Rakhyut village adds another 45 minutes one way (1.5 hrs down and back up). You would also need at least 30 minutes to go down to Al Fazayah beach (1hour round trip).

Ideally, I would recommend sparing two days for visiting the west side of Salalah. You could go to the beaches of Mughsayl and Fazayah, as well as the Shaat mountain viewpoint on one of the 2 days, drive all the way to Dhalkut, and trace back with a stop at Rakiuyt on the second day.

Or if you are planning on camping, you could start from Dhalkut and move backward towards Salalah with an overnight stop in Rakhyut, or Shaat. Camping at Fazayah beach is also a great option during the drier season. 

East of Salalah: best places to visit

None of Salalah’s itinerary would be complete without visiting at least one of the wonderful waterfalls which are at full flow during the Khareef season. Some of the most beautiful waterfalls can be found on the East side of Salalah. Also, unmissable is Samhan mountain which rises above the sea of clouds, the antigravity point, and some characteristic fishing villages. 

The main attractions to visit in the East side of Salalah:

• Ayn Athum waterfall;
• Travertine Curtain Waterfall and Wadi Darbat;
• Jebel Samhan;
• Anti Gravity Point;
• Mirbat fishing town;
• Khori Rori (Sumhuram) archeological site.

Ayn Athum waterfall

Located in Jabel Qara, around 30 minutes drive through verdant hills east of Salalah City Ayn Athum waterfall (Ayn in Arabic means waterfall) is present during Khareef season. This gorgeous waterfall is cascading 15 meters down the rock and fills up a turquoise water basin. 

The accessibility of the Ayn Athum makes it one of the most popular waterfalls in the area. Arrive early in the morning if you want to enjoy yourself in peace. 

Travertine Curtain and Wadi Darbat waterfalls

Located in a year-round green gorge, Wadi Darbat waterfalls are the most famous in Salalah. Although undeniably beautiful but way too popular for my taste. One of the reasons is that Wadi Darbat waterfalls are easily accessible by any car. It is the most commercialized waterfalls area, where you can even find food stalls, and hire a small boat for paddling in the river. This makes it a very popular destination for families.

Note: swimming in the river is not permitted. 

Nonetheless, the most impressive and my favorite is the Travertine Curtain waterfall or Darbat Cascading Waterfall. It is more secluded than Wadi Darbat, although can be spotted from afar when driving the main road from Salalah to Taqah.

To reach the waterfall you must hike for around 15 minutes alongside the river via a rough path, parts of which require climbing up the boulders. For this reason, only the fit visitors attempt to get there, while families choose the more popular Wadi Darbat. 

You can also access Travertine Curtain by climbing up the hill via a dirt road which you can spot before reaching the car park. The elevated views of the waterfall are also beautiful. You can then descend to the waterfall through the bushes following a dirt path.

Note that as tempting as it looks, the Travertine Curtain water basin is not suitable for swimming due to strong currents. 

Jebel Samhan viewing point

Part of Jabel Samhan Nature Reserve, Mount Samhan is a massif literally rising above the clouds. Home to the endangered Arabian Leopard, Jebel Samhan is part of the highest mountain range in the Dhofar region and also the most striking place you will visit east of Salalah. 

The viewing point of Mount Samham is accessible by 2WD. You can also stroll above the clouds following a well-laid path for around 100 meters which later continues as an unpaved narrow mountain path following the edge of the cliff.

Anti-Gravity Point

Following the windy mountain road from Jebel Samhan towards Mirbat, you will come across the most mysterious place in Salalah, Oman. This is Antigravity Point or Magnetic Point. Here you can watch your car in neutral gear and see it moving uphill.  

I did not believe it until I tried it myself- indeed we set the gear to N and watch the car moving up. So, what is the science behind it, or is it really a supernatural phenomenon? Apparently, it is some sort of optical illusion. The road due to the surrounding landscape appears going uphill while in reality, it is a slight downhill. 

Mirbat fishing town

Once a prosperous frankincense port, the quiet Mirbat fishing town on the east side of Salalah is worth a visit if you love photographing local rugged places and fishermen at work. A strange town reverberating with cries of seagulls doesn’t seem to see that many tourists around. Nonetheless, Mirbat offers a unique setup with worn-out houses and colorful fishing boats lining up the port. I definitely enjoyed my short evening photo journey around the area.

Mirbat is located 1-hour drive from Salalah and could be a good overnight option if you are en route back to the North of Oman via the coastal road.

Khori Rori (Sumhuram) 

A river running through Wadi Darbat makes its way to the sea at Khori Rori located near Taqah town where you will find an important archaeological site – Sumhuram. It contains ruins of an ancient city that used to be an active harbor between the 4th century BC and the 4th century AD. Historically an important frankincense trade port, Sumhuran is prescribed to the UNESCO heritage list. 

If you have more time those are the other points of interest in the area:

• Ayn Tabrook Waterfalls;
• Tawi Atair (Sinkhole);
• Taqah Castle;
• Taqah Viewpoint.

Best places to visit in Salalah city

Salalah is the second biggest city after the capital Muscat, although just a quarter of its size. Outside of less striking Salalah functional districts, the most exciting part of the city can be discovered in frankincense-infused alleyways of the old souq, palm-fringed white sand beaches reminiscing of Zanzibar and Bengali fresh fruit stalls lining up against the lush banana plantations. 

Places to visit in the city of Salalah:

• Salalah City beach (Al Haffa beach);
• Al Husn old Souq at Haffa;
• Coconut Huts;
• Al Baleed Archeological Park.

Salalah City beach (Al Haffa beach)

White sand Haffa beach lined with wind-swept tall skinny palm trees reminds more of the Caribbeans than the Middle East. 

Right at the center of Salalah City, it stretches for several kilometers east end west and offers some of the most spectacular sunsets. Locals flock to enjoy their evening at the beach. The downside is that people bring their cars as close to the sea as they possibly can. Nonetheless, it is still an interesting sight to witness in Salalah town.

For those of you keen on swimming, note that the sea is very rough during the Khareef season. However, if you come in winter and decide to have a beach day out tanning and swimming, make sure to wear shorts and a t-shirt as the beach is frequented by locals. Omani culture is conservative and it would look and feel awkward laying down on the public beach in a bikini. 

If you are aiming to suntan, the best is to stay at one of the wonderful Salalah resorts which are more tourist-oriented, or find some secluded empty beaches on the west or east side of Dhofar. 

Al Husn old Souq at Haffa Beach

A traditional Omani market just steps away from the shores of the palm-fringed beach of Salalah city is a place to wander around and shop for what Salalah has best to offer-frankincense. The Old Souq is quite small as many vendors ventured to the newer area in Haffa. Nonetheless, wandering those few alleys offers a unique cultural experience. You can even see women vendors covered in veils-something I haven’t seen in any other Souqs in Oman. 

In Al Husn souq, apart from frankincense incense, you can shop for traditional Omani attire, spices, tourist souvenirs, and Arabic oud (perfume). 

Opening times: daily, might be closed from 12 PM to 4 PM.

Coconut Huts

Lush banana, mango, and papaya plantations cover a considerable area of Salalah city. Driving on Sultan Qaboos street eastwards from Al Husn old Souq, you will find many coconut huts. Those Bengali-run fruit stalls sell fresh mangoes and coconut juice, sweet bananas, and papayas. This place definitely makes you feel like you are somewhere in a jungle of Asia. Make sure to stop and grab refreshing fresh coconut juice for as little as 1 EUR (around 300 Baisas). 

You will find more of the coconut huts located around the farms and the Al Haffa area. 

Al Baleed Archaeological Park

Another UNESCO heritage site and open-air Al Baleed Archaeological Park is what used to be Zafar-an ancient city of Salalah. It used to be an important frankincense port that flourished between the 8th and 16th centuries with the biggest trades happening between Africa, China, and India. Inside Al Baleed park you will also find the only museum in Salalah- a Land of Frankincense museum where you can grasp more information about the history of the area. 

Did you know that: Frankincense, also called desert tears, is a resin extracted from the Boswellia Sacra tree? Frankincense has been an inseparable part of Salalah’s everyday life and culture since ancient times. It used to be the most valuable commodity which earned Dhofar region and Oman a fortune before the oil was discovered. Virtues attributed to frankincense are several: medicine for digestion, tooth cleanser, perfume, magical incense, and even an aphrodisiac. 

North West of Salalah City

Ayn khor waterfall.

Ayn Khor is one the most popular seasonal waterfalls located in the northwest of Salalah. It appears only during the strong monsoon season, and thus might not be present every year. To reach it, you will need a 4WD car, or you can hike through the riverbed for a couple of kilometers. Arrive early to avoid the crowds. 

Did you know that? Dhofar region in Oman has the largest camel population in the world. I have never seen so many camels gazing and freely roaming around the streets and beaches like in Salalah and around Dhofar. They are also some of the luckiest ones in the Middle East feasting on the lush green plants, unlike their brothers and sisters that live in the barren desert areas. 

North of Salalah : best places to visit

Traveling up north from Salalah will bring you back to the vast desert lands. No more greenery or Khareef here, but the desert landscape is far from flat. 

It is an Empty Quarter (Rub al Khali) – the largest sea of sand dunes in the world covering an area of no less than 650 000 square kilometers. It is shared between Oman, Yemen, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE. An important cultural attraction at the edge of the Empty Quarter is the Lost City of Ubar which you can also visit on the way to the dunes.

Dedicate a full day or, even better, an overnight stay under the stars. It takes two hours of driving to get to the Lost City of Ubar and the Empty Quarter up North of Salalah. 

Lost city of Ubar

Discovered only in 1992 at the edge of the Empty Quarter, the Lost City of Ubar used to be yet another important trade center of frankincense. Moreover, it is believed to be the Iram of the Pillars, a lost city mentioned in the Quran.

Today you can visit the unearthed ruins of the Lost City of Ubar. 

Empty Quarter

To properly explore the magnificent sand dunes of the Empty quarter you need a 4×4 vehicle and an experienced driver who is skilled to navigate the vast desert and drive over the 100 meters tall shifting dunes. If you do not know how to drive in the desert you can drive to the edge of the Empty Quarter to catch a glimpse of it.

However, the best way to experience the Rub Al Khali desert is to actually drive into the dunes. I have not visited the Empty Quarter in Dhofar because I have been to the one in Liwa, in the UAE.

Nonetheless, if you have never visited a desert with massive sand waves before, don’t miss the opportunity to join a safari tour. Overnight camping will take your experience to another level. You will be able to see the desert at its best during the sunset and sunset hours. 

Click to check overnight Salalah desert tours on Viator:

Places to visit in Greater Dhofar Region

Driving east from the fishing village of Mirbat you will be blessed with some of the most unspoiled landscapes in the area. Empty wild white sand beaches are lining the coast and are easily accessible from the main road. While on the other side of the road you have towering rugged mountains.

Note that there are no big towns or villages after you leave Mirbat. Thus, if you need to stop for a night, your only option will be camping as the next nearest town with accommodation will be Duqm (6-7hours away from Salalah). 

Hasik beach (made up name) 

We camped on this beautiful beach where the white sands meet the mountain. I called Hasik beach as the nearest town driving eastwards is a tiny Hasik village. 

Wadi Suneik (or Suniq)

A lush green oasis nestled between barren rocks and the river stream flowing into the sea-Wadi Suneik is a little miracle in the middle of the dry terrain. 

You can access Wadi Suneik from the main road. If you are traveling during cooler months, you can even choose to camp there. Otherwise continuing up north, the steep windy road will take you above the expansive canyon with several viewpoints worth stopping at. 

Note that this 150 kilometers stretch from Mirbat to Wadi Suneik is the most picturesque on the coastal road. The section from Wadi Suniq to Sur is nice but not as impressive. Thus, only if you have plenty of time, should you take this road. Otherwise, you can drive the coastal road until wadi Suniq and then come back to Salalah making it a long day trip. 

READ MORE: Dubai to Salalah road trip planner .

Best places to stay in Salalah and South Dhofar

Most of the accommodation options are clustered in Salalah City and that is where visitors usually choose to stay. Taqah has a few accommodation options, mostly self-contained apartments, while Mirbat town has plenty of choices to rent villas and apartments, which are perfect for bigger groups.

Alternatively, you have plenty of ground to camp. You can choose to pitch a tent above the clouds in the mountains, or at the beach. Wild camping in Oman is allowed and very common. Please refer to the map where I pointed out good options recommended by other travelers. 

• Salalah accommodation suggestions
• Belad Bont Resort – located on the West side of Salalah, this resort offers a terrace, swimming pool, modern rooms, and a restaurant with a well-rated breakfast. Price range: $$
• Taqah accommodation suggestions
• 2-bedroom apartment – simple but a new apartment in Taqa town can host up to 6 people. Price range: $
• 1-bedroom apartment – Very basic but spacious self-contained apartment is suitable for a group of 4. Price range: $$
• Mirbat accommodation suggestions
• 3-bedroom villa – massive villa in Mirbat town can host up to 6 people. Price range: $
• 2-bedroom chalet – this apartment is suitable for 6 people, is a few kilometers outside Mirbat town, and offers a private pool. Price range: $$

Salalah and Greater Dhofar Map

How to use the map: Click on the map image above to open my maps in a new window and locate all the places mentioned in this Salalah travel guide. Click the tab in the top left-hand corner to open the layers (points of interest, accommodation, driving routes, etc.). You can save this map on your Google Maps account by clicking on the small star icon next to the name of the map. To open the saved map on your phone or laptop, open Google Maps, then click the menu button, go to “Your Places”, and click maps where you will see this map saved on your list.

I hope you are enjoying my free travel guides & tips. If yes, please consider supporting my work by buying me a coffee so I can continue creating more useful content from my favorite coffee shop in town. Thanks!

Oman travel essentials

• RENT A CAR : The best way to explore Oman is by self-driving. Rent a car at the best rates at Discover Cars .
• FLIGHTS: Use Skyscanner to find the cheapest and fastest flights to Oman from your location.
• VISA: Apply for an Oman visa easily at iVisa .
• ACCOMMODATION: book your perfect hotel stay on Booking .
• TRAVEL INSURANCE: get 5% off your insurance by using my link on Heymondo , a travel insurance provider.
• GUIDED TOURS: book the best-rated guided tours and day trips in Oman on Viator .
• Local SIM Card: Get a tourist pack of local data and calls at Muscat airport. Omantel provides the best coverage.
• Flight got canceled or delayed? You might receive compensation if you depart from an EU country. Consult and receive assistance from Skycop if you are eligible for compensation.

More blog posts about Oman

• Driving to Salalah? Make sure to also read my Dubai to Salalah road trip planner .
• Plan your Oman visit with my  1-week Oman road trip itinerary .
• Renting a car and driving in Oman: everything you need to know.
• Traveling from UAE to Oman by road or vice versa? Check useful information about  UAE-Oman land border crossing using this guide .
• Plan your visit to  Wadi Shab-one of the most beautiful natural attractions in Oman .
• Plan your visit to Musandam with my detailed  Musandam from Dubai road trip guide.

Hi! I am a freelance photographer & videographer as well the creator of www.theroadreel.com. Born in Lithuania, and currently residing in the UAE, I have been traveling around the globe independently for over a decade. I created The Road Reel to share my passion for travel and photography through detailed road trips and city itineraries, and hiking guides, along with regular and drone photogragraphy tips.

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Salalah, Oman – Islamic History, Architecture, and Culture

SALALAH: EXPLORING ITS ISLAMIC HISTORY, ARCHITECTURE, AND CULTURE

Salalah, the capital city of the Dhofar region in Oman, holds a significant Islamic history and boasts a blend of traditional and contemporary Islamic architecture. In this essay, we will explore Salalah’s Islamic heritage, its architectural gems, and the vibrant cultural expressions that thrive within the city.

Islamic History: – Salalah has a rich Islamic history that traces back to the early days of Islam . – The region embraced Islam through the influence of Arab traders and the spread of Islamic teachings. – Salalah played a crucial role in the maritime trade routes of the Indian Ocean, fostering cultural exchange and Islamic scholarship.

Architecture: – Salalah exhibits a mix of traditional Omani architecture and Islamic influences, creating a unique visual landscape. – The Sultan Qaboos Mosque, a prominent Islamic architectural marvel, features impressive domes, minarets, and intricate geometric patterns. – Traditional Omani architectural elements, such as carved wooden doors, ornate balconies, and arched windows, can be observed in residential buildings and historic structures. – The Al-Husn Palace, an iconic landmark, showcases the fusion of Islamic and contemporary architectural styles.

Cultural Expressions: – Islamic culture is deeply embedded in the fabric of Salalah, shaping its customs, traditions, and artistic expressions. – Islamic festivals, including Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha, are celebrated with great joy and involve prayers , family gatherings, and sharing of traditional meals. – Traditional Omani music, such as the melodic “samri” and rhythmic “haban” genres, often incorporates Islamic themes and echoes the values of the faith. – Islamic calligraphy, with its elegant script and verses from the Quran , is highly regarded as an artistic expression of devotion.

Interfaith Harmony: – Salalah embraces interfaith harmony and respect for diverse religious beliefs. – The city is home to a multicultural population, allowing for peaceful coexistence and fostering understanding among different religious communities. – Religious tolerance is celebrated, and individuals are free to practice their faith without discrimination.

Preservation of Islamic Heritage: – Salalah places great importance on preserving its Islamic heritage and promoting cultural practices. – Historic mosques, such as the Sultan Qaboos Mosque and the Al-Husn Mosque, are meticulously maintained as architectural treasures and centers of worship. – The Salalah Museum showcases artifacts and exhibits that highlight the Islamic history and cultural traditions of the region. – Traditional crafts, such as frankincense production, textile weaving, and silverwork, are preserved and celebrated as part of Salalah’s cultural identity.

Islamic Tourism: – Salalah attracts tourists from around the world who are interested in exploring its Islamic heritage and experiencing its rich cultural traditions. – Guided tours of the city’s significant Islamic sites, including mosques and historic landmarks, offer visitors insights into Salalah’s Islamic history . – The annual Salalah Tourism Festival provides an opportunity to witness traditional music, dance performances, and cultural exhibitions that showcase the Islamic heritage of the region.

In conclusion, Salalah, Oman, is a city steeped in Islamic history, adorned with magnificent architecture, and alive with vibrant cultural expressions. The city’s Islamic roots are reflected in its architectural landmarks, religious festivals, traditional arts, and cultural practices. Salalah’s commitment to interfaith harmony and the preservation of its Islamic heritage contribute to its unique charm and allure.

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• EXPLORE OMAN

VISIT DHOFAR, OMAN

Oman’s southernmost region is host to many unique attractions including Prophet Ayoub’s Grave nestled deep in the mountains, the blowholes of Mughsayl, and the Land of Frankincense – a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Deep-sea diving and snorkeling off the coast of the Hallaniyat Islands are just some of the more adventurous activities available through local tour operators.

In the summer months, when most of the Arabian Peninsula experiences soaring temperatures, Dhofar ushers in the monsoon season, bringing with it lush greenery, cooling rains, and pleasant temperatures. Locally known as Khareef, this special season starts from late June to early September and coincides with the Salalah Tourism Festival, which is held every year.

HERE THE PLACES TO VISIT IN DHOFAR

The Museum of the Frankincense Land

Wadi Darbat

Al Balid Archeological Site

Khuriya Muriya Islands

Sultan Qaboos Mosque

Al Fazayah Beach

Wadi Dawkah Reserve

Ubar - Lost City

Jebel Samhan

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In Pictures

Salalah tourism thrives despite war across the border

Competition for tourist dollars has increased in the omani oasis, where regional tensions seem far away..

Salalah, Oman – Tourists crowd atop a rocky outcrop overlooking the aqua seascape of Taqah, smiling as their Omani guide snaps a photo.

Down the coastal road towards Salalah, visitors pause by a row of tropical fruit stands to snack on fresh bananas and sip coconut water.

In this desert paradise, regional tensions seem to drift away. War is raging across the border in neighbouring Yemen, and Oman’s fellow Gulf Cooperation Council members are locked in an unprecedented diplomatic crisis – but on a recent afternoon, visitors to Salalah were simply enjoying the sunshine and stunning scenery.

“Oman is one of the safest places in the world,” said German tourist Thomas Fink. “I wasn’t worried at all about coming here.”

Local tour operator Yousaf al-Mahrooqi, who organises diving, fishing and camping trips, noted that visitor numbers have been steadily growing as word has spread about Oman as a safe haven in a troubled region.

In the early 1990s, “when I used to take one diver to Mirbat a week, I was like, ‘Yes!’ … [Since then], the place got to be known as a diving destination,” he told Al Jazeera.

Today, competition for tourist dollars has increased as more visitors flock to Oman . The country, which drew 1.9 million visitors in 2015, is in the midst of an ambitious strategy to add another 800,000 annually by 2020.

“I can see it in the market,” Mahrooqi said. “I can how the cruise ships are coming now … Every diving centre, each day they are taking up to 20 people.”

Follow Megan O’Toole on Twitter: @megan_otoole

Salalah Festival 2024- The Mesmerising Season of Omani Khareef

Top hotel collections, salalah festival 2024 - dates, salalah tourism festivities .

Things to Do During the Festival

Soak in the sceneries of wadi darbat.

Shop at the Famous Haffa Souq

Gain Yourself That Much Needed Blues at Al Fazayah Beach

Drench at the Blowholes at Al Mughsail Beach

Indulge in Some Traditional Omani Camel Meat

Other Attractions During the Khareef Season

This post was published by Anuradha Chakraborty

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Tourism celebrates culture and heritage

The tourism sector is one of the growing industries that has a promising future in contributing to the national GDP as well as create job opportunities. The major strength of Sultanate is its security and stability and the balancing of heritage and modernization.

2018 has seen the international recognition of its architectural heritage that came in the form of UNESCO announcing the ancient city of Qalhat as part of the World Heritage List.

On its website, UNESCO describes places as unique and diverse as the wilds of East Africa’s Serengiti, the Pyramids of Egypt, the Great Barrier Reef in Australia and the Baroque cathedrals of Latin America make up our world’s heritage.  “What makes the concept of World Heritage exceptional is its universal application. World Heritage sites belong to all the peoples of the world, irrespective of the territory on which they are located,” UNESCO states.

Qalhat, surrounded by inner and outer walls, as well as areas beyond the ramparts where necropolis is located. The city was a major port on the east coast of Arabia between the 11th and 15th centuries CE. Giving it the importance of world heritage is the fact that, “it bears unique archaeological testimony to the trade links between the east coast of Arabia, East Africa, India, China and South-east Asia”.

Just like Al Baleed of Dhofar Governorate, Qalhat could be a major tourism attraction.

Cultural tourism is gaining momentum in the Sultanate. Measures taken during the Renaissance in protecting heritage and investing in archaeological sites are fruit. Mirbat Fort is another prime example that has come into focus this year with the Ministry of Tourism adding the fort to the list of cultural tourist attractions and opening it on time for the Khareef season.

The ministry has been preparing castles and forts to promote cultural tourism.

Keeping up with the strategy, the ministry has been successfully renovating many castles and forts in various governorates to be opened for the public.

The architectural masterpiece is situated 80 km from the centre of Salalah.

Strategically located on the coast of the Wilayat of Mirbat overlooking the Arabian Sea, the fort was originally built to protect the wilayat and its inhabitants.

According to historical sources, it was built in the 13th Century AH/19th Century AD. It was constructed on the orders of the Sultan Said bin Taimur for the fortification on the northern side after the 1948 floods.

The impact of cultural tourism is also on the local communities. Traditional crafts of the local community and historical, geological, architectural and social life have been showcased through media and technology. There is also a traditional Mirbat market or souq as well as a port from where frankincense and horses were exported to India and China.

The Ministry of Tourism has made a lot of effort to collect and document historical information and present it to the tourists visiting the fort.

The seasons in Oman have their implications on tourism potential. Traditionally tourism season used to be the winter season. The monsoon season in Salalah and the coolness of Jabal Akhdar have been showcasing the potential of tourism in summer.

A total of 34,695 tourists visited Salalah in the second week of Khareef season between June 28 and July 4. This shows a substantial growth of 87 per cent over the same period of last year when 18,555 tourists visited Dhofar. There was a 55.3 per cent growth in tourist arrivals in the first week of the Khareef season this year, when the number of tourists stood at 22,342, according to the latest data released by the National Centre for Statistics and Information (NCSI).

One of the assets of tourism in Oman is also the road network because the statistics showed that 26,052 tourists, constituting 75.1 per cent of the total tourists during the second week, came by road.

The Ministry of Tourism launched the 2018 summer campaign under the theme, ‘Discover Beauty of Oman’, with 51 hotels taking part by offering attractive packages during the season in a bid to benefit from unique tourist potentials of the Sultanate during summer.

The campaign was launched on  May 21 . It focused on moderate temperature zones in many locations such as Jabal Shams, Al Jabal Al Akhdar, Al Ashkhara Beach and a number of villages and valleys as well as the beaches stretching across Al Wusta Governorate.

The campaign aims at activating the domestic tourism movement and attracting visitors from GCC citizens and residents, in addition to highlighting the tourist sites that can be visited during summer.

Major plans are on to develop tourism sites in the Governorate of North Al Batinah by establishing a real partnership between government institutions and private sector. The ministry has offered lands for investment in the tourism sector as per the terms and conditions of usufruct, he said.

The ministry is also studying the requirements for hotels and other recreational and tourist activities in the governorate, which has a huge potential for a range of tourism activities, thanks to its diversity.

Work on two projects has begun. These include a three-star hotel in the Wilayat of Shinas in Al Aqr area and an environmental tourist camp in the Wilayat of Saham in Al Samaida area near Al Batinah Highway.

He said the other concept distinct in the governorate is the green hostel. These are farms scattered across the governorate and have the Omani system of irrigation and plantations.

Al Hajar mountain ranges and soft sandy beaches are some of the top tourist attractions in the governorate, besides heritage sites such as castles, forts, towers, cemeteries and souqs.

Its historical buildings date back to the Portuguese era. The fort houses a museum, which was opened in 1993. It narrates the history of Suhar and other such sites in Oman.

Al Dakhiliyah is one of four governorates identified by the Ministry for development into a distinctive heritage destinations based on their unique tourism and natural attributes. The other three are Musandam, Muscat and South Al Shariqyah governorates which, along with Al Dakhiliyah, are being prioritized for early development to support the Ministry’s domestic tourism strategies.

Al Dakhiliyah has Unesco-listed forts castles, aflaj systems and traditional villages.  The Bahla Fort has its importance at world heritage level. UNESCO describes it like this, “The immense, Bahla Fort, with its walls and towers of mud brick on stone foundations and the adjacent  Friday  Mosque with its decoratively sculpted prayer niche (mihrab) dominate the surrounding mud-brick settlement and palm grove.”

An agreement was signed by Ministry of Tourism and Petroleum Development Oman (PDO) Company to develop sustainable tourism aactivities at Al Haqaf site in the Governorate of Al Wusta.

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Beyond my Door

Life over the Threshold.

Photo Essay: Wanderings in Salalah Oman

by Anwar Y 1 Comment

Salalah Oman is one of those places that is so beautiful and so magical yet so few people know anything about it. Surprisingly that even is the case among Arabs. Perhaps being peaceful and quiet means people generally ignore you. Additionally Oman is not as flashy as some of its neighbors to the North such as Abu Dhabi and Dubai. And honestly that’s a good thing. There are just so many beautiful places in Oman and I would tend to believe it might be the most beautiful and diverse of the Gulf Countries. In the south, Salalah is one such jewel, chilly and green during times when other parts of the region and scorching under the hot summer sun. It seems to defy logic, going south for the summer for cooler weather and greener hills, but Salalah delivers. I wanted to share some of the photos from around the region. I”ll talk more about visiting places here in another post.  These are from some of the drives around Dhofar (the province for Salahah).

The beautiful Green hills of Salalah. Yes It was hard to know the difference between here and say somewhere else in the world. But yes this is the Arabian peninsula.  If we had been there earlier in the summer they would have been even more green. Yes I did not realize how close I was to the deserts edge that I had visited so soon after here as well. So much diversity in such a relatively small country.

The hills were beginning to turn brown as the monsoon seasons were ending. There were camels as far as the eye can see. You almost thought they were wild until we saw their caretakers coming over the hills as well.

Going where the road is still being built. We were following the GPS but sometimes the road just didn’t seem to really be going anywhere and our tiny little Nissan Sunny was not really up for the cause. Around the bend we saw construction vehicles digging out the future roads ahead and only a few adventurous four wheel drives able to make the trek. Time to turn around and go back!

These photos show a bit of the “rush hour traffic” in Dhofar. Outside of the Salalah there was not much in terms of traffic. Just lots of open roads. We did have to be careful a bit and try to avoid some of the wildlife. Yeah the camel especially seems a bit out of the ordinary for the surrounding lush environment.

The inevitable “Camel Crossing” Sign. I loved this one and wanted to take it home but of course needed to leave it be. Always on the look out for camels!

It was so easy to get off the beaten path and find a beach and have it all to yourselves. In Oman you would not really see folks swimming on a public beach but in general you would find people spending the day lounging and have lunch or spending the day with their family. We amazingly had these beautiful places all to ourselves. The beaches are just incredible, the sea and the mountains so close together.

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There’s so much to see and do in Oman beyond the hills of Salalah . I would recommend checking my friend’s post on places to visit in Oman .

Practical Information

Visiting Oman is easy and most countries can get a visa on arrival at the airport. Flying to Salalah is possible with a connection in Muscat.

Getting around requires renting a car. There are plenty of car rental places in the airport and many of the big companies including Budget, Sixt , etc.

There are lots of hotels and resorts in Salalah and the surrounding area. My hotel was terrible but my friend loved her resort the Salalah Rotana Resort . It was gorgeous although very far from the main city. I stayed in the city based on a recommendation but I would not want to be there again. There are plenty of other hotels in Salalah if you prefer to stay near other things beyond the resorts.

Sofi leen says

July 7, 2017 at 3:34 am

I have always wanted to go to Oman. I can’t believe how cheap that gas is! Haha, the weather always seems to do that to me too, raining the whole time in places that rarely get rain

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